The New Orleans Saints have come from behind to take the lead against the Atlanta Falcons at half time in their NFC South clash.

Atlanta began the game well and their offense looked in sync. Tony Gonzalez, who recently missed a pre-season practice to spend time with his son, showed his experience as he opened the scoring for the visitors by hauling in a seven-yard pass from quarterback Matt Ryan.

The Falcons continued their dominance on offense after a defensive stand but could not find the endzone, and Matt Bryant was forced to kick a 23-yard field goal. The Saints responded minutes later with a field goal of their own from Garrett Hartley to make the score 10-3.

Ryan's offense continued to look good and he hit Julio Jones over the middle for what would have been a big gain, but the receiver was stripped of the ball and safety Roman Harper recovered to run his side into a good field position.

Saints quarterback Drew Brees took full advantage and drew his side level with a lovely throw to Marques Colston down the middle of the seam for a 25-yard touchdown, while Hartley added the extra point.

Hartley added another field goal to his tally to give his side the lead just before the break.