Keeper plays first 45 minutes in eight months
Shane Higgs completed 45 minutes in his first appearance since early January when he played in a behind closed doors practice match against Notts County at Sixfields on Wednesday.
The Cobblers won 3-1 thanks to a Louis Moult hat-trick - the third goal a superb overhead kick - but it was the appearance of Higgs as he continues his comeback from an Achilles injury that was just as pleasing for Town boss Aidy Boothroyd.
As well as Higgs, who was replaced by Dean Snedker at half time, Moult, Paul Turnbull, Ishmel Demontagnac, Henoc Mukendi, Lewis Wilson and Anthony Charles all had a run out. County's goal came from a late consolation.