In reality only six days had elapsed, but this was a performance which felt lightyears – virtually an entire new dimension – away from last weekend’s defeat at Barnet.
Amidst a tumultuous and frequently volatile encounter, Aldershot Town rediscovered their belief and cohesion, and in doing so reignited a seemingly faltering push for the Play-Offs.
The early dismissal of Kevin Thornton, for a two-footed challenge on Sandell, gifted Aldershot the numerical advantage and, from the resulting free kick, their first goal, as Morgan reached Donnelly’s cross above a static Northampton defence.
Thereafter the game threatened to descend into chaos, as referee Gavin Ward seemed to lose control. With a mass brawl appearing the catalyst for open warfare, The Shots kept admirable composure and thoroughly deserved their victory.
Second half goals from substitute Kirk Hudson – a classic counter-attack and lethal finish, fed by Chalmers’ incisive pass – and Morgan’s tap-in, to capitalise upon a horrible moment of mis-control by goalkeeper Dunn, sealed a consummate away win.