Matheus Fernandes scored the game’s only goal with a fine finish early in the second half but Saints were pushed extremely hard by a spirited Northampton display. Here are our player ratings from Sixfields...
9. Cameron McGeehan
Pounced on a loose pass just three minutes in and forced a good save from McCarthy. That set the tone for an excellent first half performance. He was a big part of Town's very effective press and did all of the simple things well. A lot of the work he does goes unnoticed but it's no doubt appreciated by his team-mates and manager... 7.5 Photo: Pete Norton
10. Sam Hoskins
He played off the left and was given an important job to do out of possession. Landed on second balls and found pockets between the lines. Very nearly slipped in List for a good chance. Another hard-working shift... 7.5 Photo: Pete Norton
11. Elliott List
His energy and pace up top meant Cobblers always had an outlet and kept Southampton's defenders on their toes. Not far wide with a fine header late in the first half. Withdrawn at the break but plenty to like about his performance... 7.5 Photo: Pete Norton
12. Jack Burroughs
Carried on from where McCarthy left off and limited Saints to very few clear chances, even after a very well-taken opener from Fernandes early in the second half... 7 Photo: Pete Norton