ANOTHER FAMILY GATHERING..

These were the scenes earlier in the week as tributes were laid at the main entrance to St. Mary`s Stadium in memory of Saints` owner, Markus Liebherr, who passed away aged only 62. On Wednesday there was a memorial service held in St. Mary`s church, Southampton, which was especially fitting given that the church Young Mens Association gave rise to the club 125 years ago. The service was attended by over 400 Saints fans as well as Markus`s family and close friends.

We Saints fans have been here before, of course. Over recent years we have seen the passing of those such as Peter Osgood, Alan Ball and Ted Bates and before each home game after those tragic losses there has been the minute`s silence or the minute`s applause and proper acknowledgements of the contributions made by those to whom we gave our respect and thanks. Those times were more like family gatherings than going to a football match and it will be the same tomorrow, when Leyton Orient come to St. Mary`s. Once again, it will be one of those days when the result won`t matter anywhere near as much as simply being there to say `Thank You` to Markus for rescuing our club. Another family gathering of at least 25,000 is expected. And never will our thanks be more heartfelt.