Manager Mark McGhee was relieved to see his Bristol Rovers side finally get their first home win of the season.
Second-half goals from Tom Eaves, Garry Kenneth and Ollie Norburn at last gave regulars at the Memorial Stadium something to shout about as Northampton were beaten 3-1.
Adebayo Akinfenwa replied for the visitors, who had centre-back Anthony Charles sent off for a professional foul on Derek Riordan after 24 minutes.
"This result has been coming because we didn't do a lot wrong against Cheltenham in midweek. But it's good to have the monkey off our back and hopefully we can now push on," said McGhee. "I'm delighted for everyone involved with the club, but it's just one result and we have to build on it.
"The supporters have been brilliant in keeping pressure off the players and I hope they have a good night.
"I have to drive back home to Brighton so I will be celebrating with a cuppa and an early night. I expect to be in bed by 9pm."
Update:
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