Ted Bates' side always looked comfortable in the second division, and it was the source of considerable frustration that they constantly drifted away from promotion year after year.

In Paine, O'Brien, Sydenham and Chivers Saints were scoring easily enough. It was only when the defence was overhauled in the 65/66 season that promotion was achieved. In came Forsyth, Walker and Webb to add steel at the back and Saints finished second.

O'Brien departed shortly before Saints clinched promotion. It would fall to his replacement, Ron Davies to keep the side in the first division. Assisted by Paine, Davies scored thirty seven goals in Saints first season in the top flight, and yet the side only just avoided relegation. Saints were slightly more secure the following year, and Mick Channon stepped into Chivers boots admirably.

Bates toughened up his defence to compliment his excellent attack. In came McGrath, Gabriel, Hollywood and Fisher resulting in the team being labelled "ale-house footballers" by Bill Shankly.

Progress in the league ranged from qualification into Europe in 68/69 to relegation battles in 67/68 and 69/70.