WALSALL v FLEETWOOD TOWN
THE SUN was shining as The Saddlers stepped out for our first-ever home League encounter with Fleetwood Town.There was a cagey opening to the proceedings. Jordan Cook saw yellow early on for a reckless challenge on Adam Chicksen that sparked a coming together of players, which was soon under control.
A corner for the visitors caused concern as The Saddlers managed to clear our lines before at the other end, Tom Bradshaw controlled the ball well before his acrobatic effort dipped over.
With chances at a premium at either end, a neat move ended with Romaine Sawyers' strike blocked just outside the area before some patient build-up in the next move ended with Andy Taylor's inviting cross being gathered by Chris Maxwell.
The Saddlers were seeing plenty of the ball and with half-time approaching, some positive play from Kieron Morris ended with his strike pushed wide by Chris Maxwell.
It was to be the last action as half ended goalless.
Walsall started the second period in positive mood as we forced a couple of early corners before Cook's low ball across the edge of the area teed up Morris whose effort was deflected wide.
A break by The Saddlers saw Sawyers find Bradshaw whose strike was on target but saved by Maxwell.
On 64 minutes, Jordy Hiwula replaced Jordan Cook.
Some neat play on the left ends with the ball being crossed in for Bradshaw whose deft header creeps just wide of the mark.
A great ball from Sawyers set Hiwula through the middle but he delayed his strike too long and it allowed Fleetwood to get men back to clear.
With 83 minutes on the clock there was a second change for The Saddlers as Rico Henry replaced Morris.
The goal that we had been threatening finally arrived with five minutes to go when Adam Chambers linked up with Cain who in turn threaded through Bradshaw and he slipped the ball past the 'keeper to make it 1-0.
It was to be Bradshaw's last involvement in the action as he was replaced late on by Sam Mantom.
The Saddlers played out the closing stages without too many problems to secure a big three points and another clean sheet.