I could get served in the Albert without the usual hustle and bustle. The usually raucous crowd were subdued.
Defeats at Wigan and Lille had left us scratching our heads, wondering where the consistency of last spring had gone. The team appeared out of sorts, the captain less talismanic than usual and the star striker lacking that cutting edge. But a win over survival-battlers Portsmouth is a certainty, surely? Victory and lots of goals would be the tonic these men need.
I've never heard You'll Never Walk Alone start so quietly. The old boy next to me didn't bother to stand up as those with scarves held them aloft, faithful as ever but lacking drive and passion. Fortunately the choir picked up for the chorus as the flag made its way across the Kop.
The team that turned out were ruthless and determined. They knocked the ball around with the panache that has been missing on too many occasions this season. An attacking formation was finally unleashed and delivered.
Chants of 'Yanks out' and 'Get out of our club' echoed around the ground, reminding us all of the state of the club and the reasons for the position it is currently in. It's doubtful that the owners heard the message or even care, but its an important display of solidarity that will continue until they depart.
Four goals, three points and one big sigh of relief as the battle for fourth place continues. This may not be the light at the end of the tunnel, more likely a flickering candle in the darkness, but its a reminder of what can be achieved with attacking football and the confidence and desire to win.