Southampton go into their ninth game of the season against their local rivals Portsmouth at St Marys Stadium this coming Sunday.
The Saints have had a positive start to the season despite a difficult start to season after being kicked out of the playoffs last May due to the infamous Spygate scandal.
Saints now just sit three points off a playoff place despite starting the season off with a four-point deduction and look to climb into those places with a win against Portsmouth this weekend.
Pompey are also just two points behind Southampton as they look to make a push away from the relegation zone meaning this derby holds much more than just an emotional grudge match.
Only a few days ago Saints manager, Tonda Eckert was given a suspended ban for his role in the Spygate Scandal meaning he is free to continue as the manager which was a relief for Saints fans.
Now this weekend Eckert has a chance to sway the fans back into his favour with a win against their biggest rivals.
leading into the big weekend, Eckert spoke on the recent issues ahead of this Sunday’s clash.
“When there’s uncertainty, it doesn’t allow you to look too far ahead. And that is gone now, so we make sure that we put out foot on the gas on Sunday and don’t stop.”
Last season was the first time both clubs were in the same league since 2012 and both fixtures ended in a draw with the last fixture at Fratton park ending one all.
With points, pride and honour on the line this Sunday, the Saints hope for a win to keep fueling their momentum this season.
