THIS is it, you Saints fans everywhere. This is the day you need to show your true colours of red and white and give Harry's boys a huge cheer as they face one of the most important games in the club's history.

Your Daily Echo expects. . . Saints fans everywhere to cheer the team on to victory, whether you've got a match ticket or not.

Only a win against fellow strugglers Norwich City can lift the club's Premiership survival hopes and give them the boost they need for success in their final two matches.

People across the city have pledged to wave the banner high and show their support for the club, which has enjoyed top flight football for 27 years.

Fans must make sure the show all their Northam soul at St Mary's Stadium. Make the stands rock and become that extra man that could lead the team to victory. Peter Osgood is hoping for an inspired performance.

He said: "I love the club, and everybody knows I am a big fan. It is in the lad's hands and they have three games to show they have the passion and drive to do the job.

"They all have to stand up and be counted. They have the chance to stay up if they give it 100 per cent.

"They are good enough if they play to their capabilities."

Southampton comedian Mike Osman was also due to be at today's crucial match to cheer on Saints. He said: "We have to keep Saints in the Premier League. We have to be there so we can play Pompey and get our bragging rights back."

Staff at one of Southampton's biggest companies were hoping to raise a glass at 4.45pm. Drinks manufacturer Bacardi-Martini, which employs 540 people at its dockside factory, donned red and white wigs in support of their heroes.

External affairs director Chris Searle said: "We are enthusiastic about Saints here.

"Our message to the team is 'You can do it!' "

The Rev Ian Johnson, rector of Southampton city centre parish, has even written a prayer, published below, to give the team and fans every bit of hope for a win.

The Rev Johnson, club chaplain, said: "I will go and stand in the middle of the pitch and pray for them if they want me to.

"I think it is important for the city that Saints to stay up. I would love Saints to stay up. It would be sad if Portsmouth were the only Premiership side in Hampshire."

Prayer by the Rev Ian Johnson

Almighty God,

We give thanks for 27 years of top league football in Southampton and for the wonderful support that follows the Saints.

Long may it all continue through the true spirit of sportsmanship and hope.

In the name of Jesus Christ.

Amen.