Walsall got back on winning track with a 1-0 home win over Stevenage on New Year's Day. It was the perfect tonic for the bitter 1-2 defeat at Leyton Orient a few days previously and, for once, Walsall came good in the last few minutes instead of losing at the end. The goal, by youngster Jamie Paterson, was worthy of winning any game. He has now scored three goals in his last five games.
There was a shock before the game when it emerged that goalkeeper Aaron Mc Carey had been sent back to Wolves and Saddlers had re-signed on loan the Nottingham Forest keeper Karl Darlow again. Its certainly been a season of chopping and changing between the posts by manager Dean Smith. Strange. Walsall were hampered early one by injuries to Andy Taylor and Flo Cuvelier and they had to be replaced. Both sides had a few chances and the visitors hit the bar. Just when it seemed Saddlers would have to settle for a draw up popped Jamie Peterson for a wonderful strike to ensure a vital three points for The Saddlers.
