Graham Alexander has his first win in charge of PNE.

Graham Alexander told his Preston North End players they 'saw two ways to win a game' in the thrilling victory over Southampton.

At the seventh time of asking, Graham Alexander got his first win as Preston boss on Saturday, Jordan Thompson's firework of a volley in the first half securing the precious three points.

The victory understandably came as a 'relief' to Alexander after a tough start in the hot seat, but it was thoroughly deserved.

North End were by far the better team in the first half, putting in a confident and imposing attacking performance that could have resulted in more goals.

After the break, Thierry Small squandered a great chance to double the lead early on, but after that it was all Southampton.

The promotion-chasing Saints had a staggering 89 per cent possession and 20 shots, yet were reduced to just two big chances thanks to resolute defending and, when they did get efforts on target, Lee Nicholls was equal to everything.

The duality of the performance left Alexander delighted.

"I said to the players afterwards, we saw two games to win a game," the manager told BBC Radio Lancashire.

"The first one was front-footed, attacking, pressure, creating chances. The second one was they've got good players, we've probably ran out of a bit of juice after a tough week, started to sit back but they forced us back.

"I said to the players, if the opponents are that good that they force us back, I can take that. If we choose to go backwards, then we've got an issue.

"I saw it in the first half when we had a choice. We went forwards. That was great.

"We got forced back through their quality, and then you've got to do the hard things. You've got to block shots, you've got to support your teammates, you have to get in front of things.

"To a man, they all did that."

Alexander details how he's changed his approach with PNE players

Alexander has been frank and honest in his assessments of recent defeats, including admitting he 'made a mistake' with how he lined his team up in the defeat at Stoke City after a positive draw against West Brom.

Speaking after Saturday's win, he also shared details on how he changes his approach to preparing his Preston players for games, offering insight into his process.

When asked about the win giving his players a boost, he said: "It's going to give the players a little bit of light relief.

"It's going to give them confidence with what we're trying to address.

"I've listened to them as well, what they've gone through. It's important I found the balance on how to prepare the team.

"I was probably too confident in coming in and thinking we'll just have a fresh start. They've been through a difficult time for a long time.

"So I rode back a little bit on the prep and listened to what they need from me. Hopefully, we've got the balance between us that works for us. Hopefully, today will give the players and myself confidence.

"I know what anyone's capable of achieving if they believe it first and foremost. If you don't believe it, you've got no chance. I was so pleased for the players and the supporters and the staff who've worked exceptionally hard for that win."

Alexander gives a dose of reality after euphoric win

Deepdale was bouncing after the victory, with fans finally given something to celebrate at the full-time whistle, while the players and staff were jubilant as well.

However, Alexander has spoken repeatedly about the importance of not reacting too emotionally to any event, either positive or negative.

So it's not surprising that he did give a dose of reality by making sure to remind everyone that Preston are still in a fight, and will be all season long.

"There's a big fight in front of us," he added. "We're not going to be out of this fight all season.

"We have to get our heads around that. There's not going to be any relief from that. So we've got to get our heads down and work."