In any season there is a defining moment; on Saturday, Southampton had theirs as they came from two goals down to beak MK Dons.
By the end of May, fans will be able to pinpoint the moment that made their season – and for many Saints fans that will be Saturday 2nd April 2011. The strength and character their team showed was incredible, when they proved they are worthy of returning to the Championship.
The Saints produced an incredible second half performance after a poor first, after an hour they were found themselves 2-0 down after goals from Gary Mackenzie and Sam Baldock. With the vocal St Mary’s crowd behind them, Nigel Adkins’ side fought back to win.
Substitute Jonathan Forte started the comeback when he scored with virtually his first touch and he added a second just two minutes later. In the 77th minute, Saints found themselves in front after the highly rated Adam Lallana thread the ball through to Lee Barnard to drive the ball home.
After the game Nigel Adkins acknowledged the fans contribution: “The crowd got behind the players, they played such a big part in the result today.”
He knew at 2-0 down many could have gone home: “Thank you very much for sticking with the team and then getting behind them when they really needed it.”
The win moved Southampton into third, if they win their games in hand then they will be second.
Top placed south coast rivals Brighton are 16 points ahead, but there is still hope for the most optimistic Saint’s fan of winning the league. It’s a big ask, but If they can make the most of their games in hand and then win at the Withdean Stadium on the 23rd April you never know….