The Sixfields encounter with Hartlepool United allows the Cobblers to get their points on the board for the weekend before it has even began.

Traditionally there has been little difference in terms of psychology when a side plays earlier than their rivals.

But for the success-starved home crowd – who despite seeing their side lose just twice on their own ground in 2008 have also seen them only win once there this season – a mid-table slot tomorrow morning would make very happy reading.

With money tight among the fans and in the club coffers, the chairman could also do with it too with the following week's fixture also taking place in Northampton.

Despite the financial turmoil gripping the global economy, though, manager Stuart Gray is concentrating on what he does best – coaching footballers.

"We're unbeaten at home in the league this season but we've only won once so what we need to do is put back-to-back wins together," he said.

"I've been very pleased with our last three performances and, although the result is the most important thing in any game, if you can put in a
performance to go with the result like we did at Crewe then that makes the win even more satisfying."

Memories of the Gresty Road win are still fresh six days after the event.

The hope is that the result will represent a turning point
in the season.

Until it, the Cobblers had only won once in the league, and that was an opening - day success against a dire Cheltenham Town side who have since shed their manager and several players.

Gray added: "We scored three goals from set plays against Crewe.

"But I think we definitely created enough chances to have scored in the game from open play.

"To have three different goalscorers was pleasing, though, and you need everyone to contribute.

"I think Danny Jackman has gone on record to say that he was disappointed with his own performances earlier in the season.

"But every player has a dip in form. His overall contribution last Saturday was very good, as was the rest of the team's performance as individuals and collectively.

"Hartlepool play a 4-3-3 shape so we might have to tinker with things a little bit but I don't think there will be too many changes to the side that played at Crewe.

"I'm not in control of Danny Wilson's team but I am in control of my team and I always pick a team to go out and win."