Up against a team brimming with confidence after that incredible comeback at Leicester City and a cup win over the same opponent, Charlton Athletic knew this would be a stern test at Southampton.
After the Portsmouth disappointment, a draw at St Mary’s felt deeply satisfying.
When I saw Nathan Jones' defensive line-up, featuring new signing Collins Sichenje, I felt a renewed sense of confidence – and by full-time, it was justified.
We kept the Saints largely at bay, which is no small feat.
Let's be honest, in pure footballing terms, Southampton are the superior side.
But if you play to your strengths – in our case, organisation and discipline – you can get your reward.
After going behind, the equaliser was the product of cohesive team play, with Amari'i Bell, Greg Docherty and Sonny Carey providing the vital ingredients.
Jones had promised his team would be better prepared for Southampton's threats, and so it proved.
Did they truly trouble our goalkeeper, Thomas Kaminski? Hardly.
Credit to Charlton for that — and for returning unbeaten from trips to all three clubs relegated from the Premier League last season, with two wins and a draw.
Given the November mauling at The Valley by these opponents, few expected much this time. But a disciplined, composed display prevented any repeat.
Hats off to Jones, his staff and players for delivering that response.
Character defines this Charlton side. After a strong defensive first-half showing, concentration levels dipped after the break and we conceded.
Yet Charlton showed resilience to fight back.
Carey, fast becoming a player of the season contender, delivered once more.
As the minutes ticked toward 100, the team held firm against Southampton's late pressure.
For Jones himself — having faced former clubs Stoke City and Southampton in quick succession — a win and a draw represent quiet satisfaction.
Elsewhere, though Blackburn Rovers' late winner on Friday evening stung, results were kinder overall.
Leicester were pegged back by Stoke, maintaining our seven-point cushion, while Coventry City's defeat of West Bromwich Albion sets up a massive six-pointer on Tuesday.
The one time you want Millwall to win, they didn't [3-1 loss to Portsmouth] – typical!
Hitting 40 points feels like a milestone. Now the target is clear: 50. Three wins and a draw from 13 games — come on, you Addicks!
