A sell-out for a big game on a Tuesday evening brought much of the city's roads to a standstill. The passion at the club hasn't been stronger in years, and with Saints sitting five points clear at the top of the table, is it time we start forgetting about survival and turn our heads towards promotion to the Premier League?
The Saints have made a perfect start to their return to the second tier of English football. Southampton's form isn't utterly surprising, given the financial situation and the stature of the club. However, the Championship is one of the toughest leagues in Europe - and Saints are certainly turning some heads. With six straight home wins, and another eight points on the road - things are looking bright for the Saints.
However, we shouldn't get carried away. It is only October. It is great to see Saints topping the league, but we're only a quarter of the way through a very demanding season.
Southampton are likely to pick up a few injuries along the way. Although Saints lead the league in goals scored, there is a notable lack of depth up front. Rickie Lambert looked tired against West Ham, as did David Connolly. Saints have a lot of games before Christmas, and it is only going to get tougher for the front two.
Nigel Adkins tried to sign a striker before the transfer window shut, and he will surely look to add some fire power in December. Southampton's midfield is fairly strong. Although Adam Lallana has missed the last two games, Saints continued to dominate in midfield with Richard Chaplow and Jack Cork stepping up. Lallana is injury-prone, and with Saints' depth in midfield, Adkins will not have to overuse the 23-year-old.
Saints have a tough fixture list up until the Christmas break. Games against in-form Crystal Palace, Middlesborough and Peterborough are mixed with big games against Reading and Brighton. The next few weeks will be a big test for Saints.
It is far too early to be even thinking about promotion. However, if Southampton can weather a harsh run up to Christmas, they can maybe start thinking about promotion. Just maybe.
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