Make no mistake about it, this was a big big result

Saints effectively fielded three new signings with Marek Saganowski joing genuine debutants in defence Jan-Paul Saeijs, in what looked to be a very well balanced Saints side.

In truth it was always going to be a game when Saints would have to dig  in. earn their right to be on the park before they tried to play pretty football, if that was the game plan, then it was followed to the letter.

True the Barnsley keeper didnt have many real saves to make, in truth Saints finishing was poor, although in fairness they didnt get too many real chances, tru Kelvin Davis had to make a couple of decent saves, but apart from that it was always going to be a game settled by one goal and Saints deserved it.

At the back the introduction of Saeijs brought height and experience badly lacking all season, obviously with it being his first game in English football heneeded time to adjust, he did so well and concentrated on defending rather than trying to be clever, at left back Lee Molyneaux had a solid start, seemed to know where he was meant to be and wanted to get forward, he could be a good signing.

In midfield we had a solid base with Holmes and BWP getting down the flanks whilst Scheiderlin and Surman anchored the middle, McGoldrick looks better suited to the position in the hole behind the main striker than any other he has played so far, Saganowski battled hard for little reward, but his work rate aided the team more than perhaps he would be given credit for.

The goal was well worked and deserved, as the half wore on Saints had started to look more dangerous and were getting down the flanks well although the ball into the box often left a lot to be desired, but you only need one good one to score and as the ball came out after a corner, Lee Holmes put a superb cross back into the area, just a little too far out for the keeper to come and the type that centre halves dread, David McGoldrick finished well with his head.

To pick a star man would be hard, Saeijs was outstanding in the way he won the ball in the air and tideied up little attacks almost before they had developed, the midfield worked tirelessly, in all honesty there were probably about 9 candidates in the frame when it came to work rate and battling alone, but for my part it has to be Kelvin Davis, he did everything a keeper should do, came off his line smartly, marshalled his defence, he even came for crosses ! but he also made two excellent saves that just about give him the edge in my book.

Those who like to try and read something in every action will be sad to hear that after the game Davis went to the visiting Saints fans and handed his shirt to one, was this a farewell action or merely that of a player appreciative of the fans for travelling and giving the team sturdy backing, on the other hand he wasnt the only player to hand his shirt out either, the team looked to have a genuine belief and spirit in them, it will be needed next week on both the pitch and in the stands.        

Photo: Action Images

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