Author: David Evans
Walsall made their first ever visit to the 'New Meadow' - the home of Shrewsbury Town last Sunday in a game which was screened live by SKY tv, however as is often the case with The Saddlers they got beat before the watching world. The 1-0 reverse was annoying as Walsall had by far the better play in the first half and had enough chances in the match to have won. Cheered on by a noisy 1,400 fans, Dean Smith's young team won many friends with their style of play. Not for the first time though this season, Saddlers lacked that clinical edge in front of goal.
Walsall saw the return of Dean Holden, Adam Chambers and George Bowerman but were withought Will Grigg who was on international duty. Flo Cuvelier was able to play following his U21 game for Belgium but he took a couple of heavy knocks and when he disappeared the midfield wasn't really the same. Walsall, as mentioned, made all the early running and it was a major setback when the home side scored as it was their first real attack of the game. From a corner they hit the bar and there was Parry to force the ball over the line from close range.
Walsall surged forward and the home keeper Weale was in terrific form with some fine saves. Walsall captain Andy Butler hit the bar in the second half and Substitute Aaron Williams missed a great chance from seven yards. As the clocked ticked down Walsall ran out of ideas and the chance to level was lost. A big disappointment for everyone that the old rivals got one over The Saddlers.
