Boss marks 250th match with a win...
Dean Smith described his side’s gritty 1-0 victory at Scunthorpe as “one of the most pleasing results of the season”.Rico Henry scored the game’s only goal on 27 minutes with a composed left-footed finish after latching onto Jordan’s Cook’s superb reverse pass.
Walsall remain second in League One – just one point off top – and Smith was pleased to mark his 250th match in charge with a win.
“That’s one of the most pleasing results of the season in terms of performance, discipline and doggedness – which isn’t a word you’d usually associate with our team,” said Smith.
“But tonight we had to dig in.
“I knew it would be a tough game and they didn’t give us much time on the ball. But defensively we were very professional and protected Neil Etheridge really well.
“I’m really pleased to get the win in my 250th game.
“I didn’t realise (it was my 250th) until I was told on Monday. It has gone very quickly.
"Hopefully, we can now get another win at the weekend.”
The boss was also full of praise for young full-back Henry, who has now scored two goals this season.
“I’m really pleased for him,” said Smith.
“He’s a great kid and is very enjoyable to work with. He gives you no problems, he just gets on with it and does his job. He’s a quick learner as well.
“He’s gone through and finished that chance like a seasoned goalscorer. It was a great touch and a good flick from Jordan Cook, who I was really pleased with as well.
“For that to be only his second goal - and first league goal – is really pleasing.”