Southampton dominated the early stages against average opposition so it was no surprise when they took the lead on 13 minutes, Rickie Lambert volleying home from a Dean Hammond cross. However, the away side made a rare opportunity count 10 minutes later with Luke Rooney equalising from the edge of the penalty area.
It could have been one of those frustrating afternoons which Saints fans have become accustomed too recently, but the lead was restored on 35 minutes when Papa Waigo scored his first goal for the club (the goal on Tuesday has been officially confirmed as Lambert's), finishing well from six yards out.
And Saints went 3-1 up just before half time through Adam Lallana, bringing a very satisfying first half to a close for the home side.
The second half wasn't quite as entertaining, but few will complain, as Saints added a fourth late on, Lallana scoring his second of the game.
This was undoubtedly Southampton's best performance of the season so far. The attacking trio of Lambert, Lallana and Waigo looked unstoppable and Gillingham created very few chances.
Saints player ratings-
Kelvin Davis - 6 - Didn't have much to do, but there when he was needed.
Lloyd James - 7 - Looked comfortable at right back, held his position well.
Neal Trotman - 6 - Has to take the blame for Gillingham's goal as he failed to close down.
Radhi Jaidi - 7 - Solid all match and an aerial threat from corners.
Dan Harding - 8 - Fast becoming a real fan's favourite for his persistence in tackling.
Paul Wotton - 7 - Got stuck in well and protected the defence competently.
Dean Hammond - 7 - With Wotton performing defensive duties in midfield Hammond was free to become a creative spark.
Jacob Mellis - 7 - More effective in the middle, showed some of his potential in the first half when he hit the post.
Papa Waigo N'Daiye - 8 - Showed at times he is real quality and finished well for his goal.
Adam Lallana - 9 - MAN OF THE MATCH - Ran Gillingham ragged down the left, judging by this performance he is one of the league's top players.
Rickie Lambert - 8 - Worked hard and deserved his goal, his best performance in a Saints shirt so far.
Subs-
Simon Gillett (on for Lallana) - 6 - Didn't have much to do, but played with his usual determination.
Lee Holmes (on for N'Daiye) - 6 -Brought on late, got a good reception from the St Marys crowd as he continues his comeback from injury.
Matt Paterson (on for Lambert) - 6 - Had too little time on the pitch to make an impact.
It was great to leave the ground on Saturday with that winning feeling and now we're finally out of minus points hopefully we can swiftly claw our way up the table.
Its a busy week ahead for Saints; tomorrow they play their first ever game in the Football League Trophy at home to Torquay before travelling to Essex on Friday to take on Southend.
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