The Cobblers remain level on points with Wycombe Wanderers and Bristol Rovers after Easter Monday's defeat at home to Portsmouth with their two main relegation rivals meeting at Adams Park this weekend.
Exeter City remain in trouble after defeat in a Devon derby against bottom club Torquay United. The Grecians are two points better off than Northampton.
Next opponents Dagenham are now out of the play-off picture and Cobblers assistant manager Alan Knill was in upbeat mood after the game against Portsmouth as his side did everything but score against their South Coast opponents.
"I have to say I thought our performance was outstanding. We're always disappointed to lose but if you're going to lose then that's how you should do it, you should keep going."