Under-23s manager Radhi Jaïdi praised the influence of returning forward pairing Marcus Barnes and Tyreke Johnson in the wake of a 2-1 triumph over Middlesbrough.
Barnes was the architect of Saints' opener, using his pace and muscle to tee up Jonathan Afolabi, while Johnson netted the decider from the penalty spot.
And there was plenty more to be positive about, with Saints showing the character needed to come from behind, and enough determination to hold onto all three precious Premier League 2 points.
"We weren't at our best first half, we conceded a lot of the play and the weather conditions were tough," Jaïdi commented.
"I was very pleased with the boys' reaction. I asked them to be more positive in the final third.
"Marcus and Tyreke gave us more stability up front. They've both had some good experiences around the first team and I was pleased with their impact.
"We created chances in the second period, and they put them away, which gave us the upper hand.
"It wasn't a typical display from us, but we got the job done."