Walsall continued their good work with a 1-0 win over MK Dons at the Banks's Stadium last Saturday to climb to ninth in the table and although manager Dean Smith claims he hasn't even looked at the table after just five games-the supporters have.
After two seasons of being mainly in the bottom six or so places its a welcome change to see Walsall in the top half. It was another game in which Walsall had to wait for their opportunity to strike. The visitors had some good first half chances including hitting a post but Walsall rode their luck and got their passing game going. One striking thing about last Saturday was the atmosphere amongst the fans behind the goal. It was so positive and relatively noisy. The backing is clearly there for Dean Smith and his men as they are going about their task.
The goal came from centre back Dean Holden on 17 minutes and he battled well to throw off a challenge from Shaun Williams to sneak the ball into the net from close range. He has formed such a good understanding with captain Andy Butler in the heart of the back four and the duo were so commanding in this game. There were good performances from Walsall players all over the park. Goalkeeper David Grof kept a clean sheet which was pleasing for him but in fairness he didn't have a lot to do but what he did he did well.So its two away games next-Portsmouth on Saturday and Stevenage of Tuesday night.
Author: David Evans
