Walsall have now completed their public friendly matches in preparation to the new season with trips to Cheltenham Town and Port Vale as Manager Dean Smith embarks on his first full season at the Banks's Stadium. At Cheltenham Walsall were largely outplayed by the League Two hosts and went down 3-2 in a result and performance which disappointed the manager.
Town took the lead as early as the 9th minute through Jimmy Spencer however Alex Nicholls levelled things for the visitors in a move which was started by Anton Peterlin who fed Mat Sadler. His cross was brilliantly brought down by Nicholls who finished off nicely. On the stroke of half time Kaid Mohamed restored Town's lead and Cheltenham went further ahead through Josh Lowe. Substitute Jamie Patterson got one back for The Saddlers towards the end.
The final game was held at Port Vale last Saturday and Walsall were looking for their first win in four games since their games in Scotland. Dean Smith put out what many think will be the starting line up next Saturday when the season proper begins. It took Port Vale eight minutes to take the lead when Sean Rigg fastened on to to a knock-down from Marc Richards which gave keper Jimmy Walker no chance. After an hour's play Walsall drew level thanks to some good work from Adam Chambers who found Alex Nicholls who hit a low ball into the box which the home keeper spilled and defender John Mc Combie turned the ball into his own net.
