SAINTS manager Russell Martin was proud of his players for "showing both sides of the game" in their 2-1 win at Leeds United.

Goals from Adam Armstrong and Will Smallbone sandwiched Joel Piroe's leveller in an action-packed first half. 

The result meant Martin's side finished the league season unbeaten in six matches against eventual playoff competitors. 

Saints had to hold on for all three points at Elland Road after losing key players Che Adams and Flynn Downes to substitutions. 

Speaking after the match, Martin said: "I really enjoyed lots of the performance.

"Some of the football we played was fantastic in the first half, maybe we could make more use of the openings we had.

"There was a bit of tension in the players after a tough week last week. Losing three on a bounce is not easy.

"I was frustrated that we didn't quite make the most of them with the quality we had. There were a few unforced errors in the final third.

"The guys in the build-up were doing incredible for them but we were really pleased with so much of it but I felt there was more to come.

"The second half started really well and then after we soaked up a lot of pressure against a really good team in the last 20 minutes, I thought the lads did that really brilliantly."

He continued: "We showed both sides of the game today. We asked for big energy and more aggression in the team.

"They had that, the guys, so I'm proud of them and we played some really fantastic stuff. I think there's more to come as well." 

Martin opted for a tactical change to take on the potential playoff final opponents, starting with a five at the back including wing-backs. 

It was the first time Saints had started in that formation this season and allowed them to have three centre-backs defending the box. 

Asked about the switch, Martin explained: "We will take a lot of learning from today. 

"There's been a lot of frustration along the way as well and some dropped points but two good teams played today.

"It was a good game and a good advert for the Championship, I think. Thankfully we've come out on top.

"We tried something a bit different. It's worked quite well. We now have that to have up our sleeve if we want it. 

"It's not necessarily going to be effective or useful against West Brom but it was worth trying something today.

"It worked to suit the opposition because we wanted to win the game and finish the season well."