SAINTS manager Russell Martin praised his side's "mentality" as they edged QPR 1-0 to secure three huge points at Loftus Road.

Taylor Harwood-Bellis scored the only goal of the game before half time but Saints had chances to kill the contest in the second period. 

Adam Armstrong knocking the free-kick to the defender meant it was five consecutive away games in which he had either scored or provided (one goal and four assists).

Goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu was only tested from range as Saints made it 15 league matches without defeat, one shy of a 16-game run by the club in 1950. 

Speaking after the match, Martin told the Daily Echo: "I thought we were okay in the first half but did not have as much energy as we have had in recent weeks.

"In the second half, our build-up was excellent and we entered their box relentlessly, forcing the goalkeeper into saves.

"We should have done more with the moments we had. Kyle (Walker-Peters) was there a lot, Arma and Che Adams had a big chance.

"It would have been nice to get the second goal but we are playing a good team, a well-coached team who have built momentum under Martin."

He added: "We knew it would be a tough game and I was worried about it. I worry about every game, obviously, but this tight pitch isn't ideal for us really. 

"I was pleased with the mentality of the players and we scored from a set-piece. Despite losing Andreas Georgson this week, he has given us a good platform and process to build from. 

"Matt Gill and Colin Calderwood in particular took lead on that this week and we have come through it. 

"We limited them to few chances really, they had some moments across the box and shots from range but we defended it brilliantly."

Martin opted for a triple-substitution after just 54 minutes with Saints soaking up pressure from the home side. 

Che Adams, Ryan Fraser and Shea Charles all came on, after Ryan Manning had already replaced injured James Bree in the first half.

Martin explained: "There was nothing wrong with the performances of the players who came off but I think they were all fantastic when they came on. 

"I thought Che Adams was great, he was fuming with himself that he didn't score but his all-round game and bringing others into it really helped us."