Exhibit 23.1


We have issued our reports dated February 18, 2000 accompanying the consolidated
financial statements of First Savings Bank for the years ended December 31, 1999
and 1998  which are  included  in  Southern  Financial  Bancorp,  Inc.  Form 8-K
Amendment  No. 1. We hereby  consent to the  incorporation  by reference of said
reports in the registration  statements of Southern Financial  Bancorp,  Inc. on
Form S3 (File No.  333-00916)  and on Forms S-8 (File No.  33-80285 and File No.
33-90287).



                                         /s/ Grant Thornton, LLP


Vienna, VA
November 15, 2000