SAINTS have struck an early blow in their play-off semi-final battle with Derby after the Rams were forced to return more than 700 tickets for Saturday's game at St Mary's.

The Rams weren't able to sell their full allocation for the biggest game of the season so far and have returned 710 seats in block 42.

By contrast Saints have almost sold their full quota of 5,000 for Tuesday's return leg at Pride Park. They go on general sale on tomorrow (Friday) along with the 6,000 remaining seats for Saturday's home game.

It means that some Southampton season ticket holders have ended up moving unnecessarily but if they bring their new tickets to the box office, Saints will do their best to switch them back.

However it will not be possible to help everyone because of the segregation netting or if their seats have already been sold.

Head of Supporter Services, David Luker, said: "This is disappointing because we have had to move supporters, unnecessarily as it turns out, as Derby claimed their full 15 per cent allocation which they are entitled to and which we were obliged to provide by the Football League rules.

"That said, we do now have more tickets available and where possible we will try and move fans back to their original seats in block 42 if they call in person to the ticket office but we will not be able to do this for everyone given the late notice."

Tickets for the home leg go on open general sale on Friday and with Derby not selling out, it means Saints no longer have to sell only to fans on the database and there will now be no restrictions on the number of tickets fans can buy.

To make life easier for fans, tickets for the away game will also be on general sale on Friday. Supporters are urged to call in to the ticket office if at all possible to ensure they get their tickets in their hands. Fans can book online or by calling free on 0800 280 0050 but there is likely to be huge demand for this service.