austsaint

"Baby, please don't go"

Great highlights indeed. As others have mentioned, Rickie looked very involved and effective; Barnard lively; Guly's goal sublime; Puncheon looked classy - I hope Nigel had a word with young AOC for shooting rather than supplying JP for an easy tap in late in the game.

Terrific news - and well done to AL for committing now rather than waiting for the season's end. He ticks most criteria you would want in a player for SFC - skillful; down-to-earth; British born and a local lad.

Good Manager - hope he does well at Newcastle. He brought SFC back from oblivion with astute signings and a turnaround of culture and attitude.

I see it the same way.......Surman a fringe Championship player who has peaked; Lallana an untapped, improving player with special skills.

I see it the same way.......Surman a fringe Championship player who has peaked; Lallana an untapped, improving player with special skills.

Yep, AP will always have a tick from me for his contribution in re-establishing the Club's credibility on the pitch. There is no need to compare AP and NA....both are good managers with differences in style and personality. AP would probably have guided us to promotion this season; NA will probably guide us to promotion this season.

Thanks Wes, and to many others for the encouraging and detailed analysis of the game. The lift in mood among supporters after a couple of good displays comes through to this forum, and it's great for ex-pats to pick up on that. Watching the Brighton v Bournmouth game tonight made me think they are not promotion threats judged on their display. So good to hear that Guly clicked; Puncheon hitting form and Fonte back to his best. Where did Guly play today? Up front with Ricky or central Mid. ?

I agree. LB is innocent unless proven otherwise, but if he has assaulted someone resulting in serious injury he is a bloody idiot and his immediate playing future should be in doubt.

Good summary Smirking!! You've covered all the context bases.

It does seem as though the team is still unsettled by the method of Aps exit.

This is the thing isn't it. The situation that's going on with sacking of AP and the yes/no new appointment drains the enthusiasm away. I'm feeling similar to when Pearson was removed - sapped of the joy of following SFC. It'll come back though!!!! Adkins will do.

Not playing Waigo regularly and appearing not to back his retention was one of the few criticisms I had of AP.

Watched the game on Bet 365 - Guly looked promising and once he settles will be an asset. It must be a bit bewildering for him to take in all the happenings of the last couple of weeks. The whole side looks shell shocked and dis-spirited...I thought young Oxo looked really good though not yet the finished article; Connolly ok; Ricky awful.

What shocking news. Let's hope the club name the stadium or a stand within to perpetuate the memory of this generous human being.

We used to. His name was Papa!!!

Yes, that's right. In Australia the game will be on Bet 365 at 9:45pm Saturday night.

Not only a good keeper with the best part of his career in front of him, but judging by interviews a very genuine, down-to-earth fellow too.

confident

Really hits the mark....there should be no debate comparing AP and NP. When NP was dumped by Lowe I not only agonized about losing such a promising managerial talent but doubted the club would find someone as good in the near future. The fact that we have now a manager of similar background and quality is just one of the great things about supporting SFC in the last year.

Geez I hope they do!!

I think Papa's 'sub' status says more about APs mindset than the players ability. AP didn't choose to have Papa come to SFC.....imo it's the only mistake AP made all season in his assessment of players. If the buying price was fair and Papa wanted to stay it would be crazy not to keep him.

I will be scratching my head in disbelief if Papa isn't offered a return to Saints. A very gifted player and at times very exciting to watch. I'm sure there will be negotiations with Reading for Antonio. Like many on here, I wish Chris Perry well in the future - a model pro over many seasons.

Am I alone in thinking Andrew Surman wouldn't make the Saints starting lineup next season?

Totally agree, Gemmel - AP is an impressive Manager and his interviews are always worth listening to - insightful, genuine and without cliche. Funnily enough he reminds me a little of Nigel P. in his interview style and as a man worthy of respecting and trusting. As you say, if the form guide is anything to go by we should emulate Leicester 12 months ago and Norwich this year when the new season begins. Like others though, I worry about the Tuesday nights on bog grounds and against opposition intent only on spoiling and negating open football.