JAMIE Vincent and Richard Taundry made their return to action for the reserves as we drew 1-1 with Burton Albion. Vincent played the full 90 minutes, whilst Taundry played for 75 minutes.

With four minutes on the clock, Danny Marsh in the visitors' goal did well to deny Alex Nicholls after Josh O'Keefe had picked him out in space.

The 'keeper then did well to push out Nicholls' effort five minutes later as Walsall started on top.

A sharp break by Serge Makofo saw his attempt well blocked by Clayton McDonald as The Saddlers were forced to defend for the first time.

Some good work on the right by Peter Till ended with him crossing invitingly for Sam Parkin whose header brought another important save from Marsh.

There was a booking for Walsall captain, McDonald for a foul before Benn Minshull fired just wide from distance for The Brewers.

With ten minutes to go until half-time, Nicholls seized upon a loose ball to break away from Aaron Brown, but he lashed his effort well wide as he closed in on goal.

At the other end, Darryl Westlake had to be alert to deny Jimmy Phillips as he pulled the trigger.

The half ended with Till and Parkin linking up well to present a shooting chance for O'Keefe who was well off target, before Kieron Cadogan was booked for diving inside the penalty area.

Sam Adkins dragged an effort wide early on in the second period.

There was an early change as Jamie Paterson replaced Nicholls and within seconds, The Saddlers had the lead as Adkins delivered a deep cross to the far post where Parkin found the net with a diving header.

It was to be Parkin's last involvement in the action as he was replaced by Will Grigg.

After Minshull curled narrowly wide from outside the penalty area, a short back-pass at the other end put Marsh in trouble as Grigg won the ball but failed to pick out a team-mate as Burton got numbers back to clear the danger.

A handball by Westlake gave the visitors a free-kick right on the edge of the area which Brown blasted goalwards only for Gilmartin to push out.

With Sean Geddes on for the fit-again Richard Taundry, a burst down the right by Till ended with him cross for O'Keefe whose sweet header was well clawed away by the 'keeper.

The visitors caused problems late on as Isaac Minott did well to set up Phillips who was denied by Gilmartin. As the resulting throw-in came back into the penalty area, Phillips was on hand to fire home into the roof of the net to level the scores and that's how the game was to finish.

"We worked hard but lacked a killer instinct," said reserve team boss, Martin O'Connor. "We got into some good positions, but couldn't finish.

"Our first half performance was better than afetr the break, but we managed to score a well-worked goal early in the second period.

"Some sloppy play on a set-piece allowed them to get back into it near the end and cost us victory, which was very disappointing."

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Westlake, Vincent, Partridge, McDonald, O'Keefe, Till, Taundry (Geddes), Parkin (Grigg), Nicholls (Paterson), Adkins. Subs not used: Hickman, Keenan.

DERBY COUNTY 3 WALSALL 0 - 13/1/2010

THE SADDLERS' second-string suffered a 3-0 defeat at the hands of their Derby County counterparts in the totesport.com League Central Division on a bitterly cold afternoon in the East Midlands.

First-half goals from Jay McEveley and DJ Campbell put the hosts 2-0 up before Campbell bagged his second and Derby's third at the start of the second-half.

Derby included a number of senior players. As well as their two goalscorers, the likes of Nicky Hunt, Gary Teale, Luke Varney and Lee Hendrie all feature.                                                                                                                                                                                  

"We stuck at it but were undone by conceding some poor goals," said second-string boss, Martin O'Connor. "We put in an improved performance during the second half and created some decent chances, but we have to learn from our mistakes.

"Clayton McDonald was forced off with a back injury late in the first half, which was disappointing, but there were some encouraging signs from some of the younger lads with Rory Wood, Will Grigg and second half substitute, Jamie Paterson looking lively. Alex Nicholls also had a decent game."

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Wood, Vincent, Hickman (Partridge), McDonald (McCourt), O'Keefe, Taundry, Nicholls, Grigg, Parkin, Craddock (Paterson). Subs: Bowerman, Cooney.

WALSALL 2 LEICESTER CITY 1 (LEAGUE CUP) - 27/1/2010 (PLAYED AT SOLIHULL MOORS FC)

GOALS from Sam Parkin and Alex Nicholls have given The Saddlers' reserves a 2-1 victory over Leicester City in the totesport.com League Cup.

Walsall were forced to come from behind against a youthful Foxes outfit in a game that was played at Damson Park, home of Solihull Moors FC.

"We started slowly and found ourselves a goal down within the opening minute," said reserve team boss, Martin O'Connor. "It was nip-and-tuck for the remainder of the first half, but we were more expansive after the break to stretch the game.

"We played with a much better tempo in the second period and stepped up a gear. Our movement was improved and the players enjoyed it a lot more.

"We got back on level terms as Richard Taundry crossed well into the danger zone and Sam Parkin showed great movement to make space for himself and apply the finish.

"The winner came from the penalty spot as Alex Nicholls tucked the ball home to turn the scoreline on its head and give us the victory that our second half performance deserved."

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Westlake, Sansara, Hickman, Partridge, Taundry, Nicholls, O'Keefe (Geddes), Parkin, Craddock (Pateron), Grigg. Subs not used: Wren, McCourt, Overfield.

WALSALL 2 SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY 3 - 17/2/2010

A LAST-GASP goal saw The Saddlers' reserves slip to a 3-2 defeat at the hands of Sheffield Wednesday on a wet afternoon in Solihull.

The major bonus to come out of the game, though, was a lively 35-minute appearance from Steve Jones - his first taste of action since early December. He went close on a couple of occasions only to be denied by the visiting 'keeper.

"It was a massive plus for the club to have Steve back in action," said reserve team boss, Martin O'Connor. "He looked sharp and caused the visitors' defence a few problems.

"It was a pretty even first half with our play in the final third not being good enough. There was a marked improvement after the break and we deservedly went ahead with a good goal from youth teamer, Jamie Paterson.

"We allowed our visitors to get back on level terms straight from a corner but proceeded to get our noses back in front once more when Josh O'Keefe's shot took a deflection that beat the 'keeper.

"Again a lack of concentration at the back let Wednesday in to make it 2-2 and they then snatched a winner with the last kick as we failed to clear the ball properly."

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Wood, Sansara, Smith, Hughes, O'Keefe, McCourt, Geddes, Grigg (Bowerman), Paterson (Jones), Davies. Subs not used: Hickman, Partridge, Wren.

WALSALL 0 WEST BROMWICH ALBION 0 - 2/3/2010

THE SADDLERS' second string drew 0-0 with West Bromwich Albion in the totesport.com League Central Division.

American trialist, Jonathan Borrajo, and Steve Jones, on his way back from a niggling groin problem that has laid him low since December, both featured.

In an evenly-contested match, Jones missed a penalty just before the hour mark, as did the visitors, who were awarded a spot-kick in injury time following a foul by Netan Sansara.

"Against strong opposition, I thought that we competed well, tried to do the right things and kept a good shape without really causing Albion too many problems in the first half," he said. "It was very much nip-and-tuck in the opening period with chances at either end at a premium.

"During the second period we were hard to break down and I thought that Mark Hughes and Rhys Weston looked solid in the heart of defence. They both displayed a good attitude, organised the back-line extremely well and were very professional throughout.

"It was good to see Steve Jones get another hour of action under his belt. He looked lively and although he missed a penalty early in the second half, it is good to have him back in the fray.

"Albion had a penalty of their own late on but Clayton Ince did his job well to save and earn us a point.

"Overall I feel that 0-0 was a fair result from our point of view. Albion had more possession, but we made it difficult for them."

WALSALL: Ince, Borrajo, Sansara, Weston, Hughes (Hickman), Davies, Adkins (McCourt), Bradley, Paterson, Jones (Partridge), Geddes. Subs not used: Wood, Wren.

BURTON ALBION 0 WALSALL 4 - 16/3/2010

THE SADDLERS' second-string ran out comfortable 4-0 winners at Burton Albion last night.

Goals from Sam Parkin, Peter Till, Darren Byfield and substitute Will Grigg sealed victory for Martin O'Connor's side at the Pirelli Stadium.

It was Parkin, returning from an injury lay-off, who opened the scoring just past the quarter-of-an-hour mark when he fired home from close range.

The Saddlers remained on top throughout the opening period and both Byfield and Mark Bradley squandered chances to extend the lead before the break. It was 2-0 just seconds into the second-half as Peter Till smashed home an angled drive from 20 yards.

Byfield and Grigg combined in the 53rd minute but desperate Burton defending kept the pair at bay.

The evergreen Kevin Poole, Albion's 46 year-old stopper, was in fine form and continued to deny The Saddlers with a string of outstanding saves.

He was given no chance in the 69th minute though as Byfield found the top corner with a thunderous effort to make it 3-0.

Will Grigg capped an impressive second-half showing with a goal in injury time to complete a productive night's work for the second-string.

WALSALL: Clayton Ince, Rory Wood, Louis Keenan, Mark Bradley (Sean Geddes, 76), Mark Hughes, Manny Smith, Sam Adkins, Richard Davies, Sam Parkin (Will Grigg, 46), Darren Byfield (Jamie Paterson, 70), Peter Till. Sub not used: Jordan McCourt.

WALSALL 0 SHEFFIELD UNITED 2 - 30/3/2010

THE SADDLERS' second-string went down by two goals to nil at the hands of Sheffield United who scored a goal in each half on a wet night at Banks's Stadium.

"We were the better team up to the final third," said reserve team boss, Martin O'Connor. "I thought that we started the game brightly, but Sheffield United scored against the run of play and it cost us.

"I felt that we applied ourselves well enough, it's just that we couldn't get that decisive goal and lacked that bit of quality when it mattered.

"That said, there were some bright performances from the likes of Will Grigg and Mark Bradley, whilst Sam Parkin got the full 90 minutes under his belt, which was a bonus for us."

WALSALL: Ince, Westlake, Keenan (Paterson), Hickman, Partridge, Davies, Adkins, Bradley, Parkin, Grigg (McCourt), Geddes. Subs not used: Wood, Bowerman, Cooney.

MACCLESFIELD TOWN 0 WALSALL 0 - 7/4/2010

THE SADDLERS' second-string drew 0-0 at Macclesfield Town in totesport.com Central League.

The likes of Clayton Ince, Clayton McDonald, Netan Sansara, Mark Bradley and Josh O'Keefe all featured for Martin O'Connor's men.

"We did okay in the first half but we didn't keep hold of the ball well enough," said O'Connor afterwards. "We lacked a little bit of quality but at least we kept a cleansheet.

"We dominated the second period but just couldn't create any real chances."

WALSALL: Clayton Ince; Darryl Westkale, Netan Sansara, Alex Hickman, Clayton McDonald, Mark Bradley, Sam Adkins, Josh O'Keefe, Will Grigg, Jamie Paterson, Richard Davies. SUBS: Sean Geddes, George Bowerman, Jake Jones, James Wren.

PORT VALE 4 WALSALL 1 - 14/4/2010

A YOUTHFUL Saddlers' reserve team slipped to a 4-1 defeat at Port Vale despite taking an early lead through Jamie Paterson.

"It was a disappointing result for us in the end," said second-string boss, Martin O'Connor. "We fielded an extremely youthful side, including some of the scholars who have been released in order to give them the best possible chance to get fixed up elsewhere.

"Port Vale were more experienced than us, but we started the game well and deservedly took an early lead through Jamie Paterson.

"We allowed Vale to get back on level terms and I feel that we let the equaliser effect us too much and they went on to score two more goals in quick succession before half-time to effectively kill the game off and leave us with a mountain to climb in the second half.

"But we came out and had more possession after the break, creating a number of chances that we were unable to make count before Vale added a fourth goal.

"Hopefully the youngsters involved will learn from that. We gave it a go, but came up short in the end."

WALSALL: Cooney, Davies, Keenan, Hickman, Partridge, McCourt, Paterson, Geddes, Bowerman (Mellors-Blair), Grigg, Adkins. Subs not used: J. Jones, Cresswell, Wren.

WALSALL 4 SHREWSBURY TOWN 0 - 20/4/2010

GOALS from Sam Parkin, Josh O'Keefe, George Bowerman and Jamie Paterson gave The Saddlers' reserve team a convincing 4-0 victory over Shrewsbury Town as we brought our totesport.com League Central Division campaign to a close in fine style at Banks's Stadium..

"I said to the boys beforehand, the team we had out was good enough to win the game if we showed the right attitude," said reserve team boss, Martin O'Connor. "We started off reasonably well and the penalty calmed us down a bit.

"In the second half there was a bit more fluency and tempo to our play. We pressed higher up the pitch which meant, when we did win it, it was in the final third and we created more chances.

"It was nice to end the season with a convincing win."

Rhys Weston blazed over from distance early on but The Saddlers edged ahead after 24 minutes when Scott Keyes handled Netan Sansara's deflected free-kick and Parkin smashed the penalty down the centre.

The striker headed wide soon after and Bowerman forced Chris Neal into a smart near post save eight minutes before the break.

Peter Till sliced wide following a darting run as the hosts continued to dominate and nine minutes after the break they bagged a second. Neal denied Parkin and Mark Bradley in quick succession but when the ball fell to O'Keefe 35 yards out the midfielder coolly lobbed in.

90 seconds later it was 3-0 when Till fed Bowerman and the young striker finished from close range.

Lewis Neal's free-kick deflected behind and Clayton Ince claimed Kris Bright's glancing header as The Shrews tried to hit back.

Ince then saved from Andre Grey while Bright drilled wide but Richard Davies should have made it 4-0 after a quick break from a corner with ten minutes remaining.

Substitute Paterson did add a fourth a minute from time when he skipped down the right and drilled under Neal.

WALSALL: Ince, Weston, Sansara, Hickman, Partridge, Bradley, O'Keefe, Davies, Parkin, Bowerman (Paterson), Till. Subs: Geddes, Adkins, Wren.

WALSALL 0 PORT VALE 1 - 19/8/2008

THE SADDLERS' reserves opened their Central League campaign with a 1-0 home defeat at the hands of Port Vale.

The opening action saw Walsall look to make an early impact with Troy Deeney, Nick Chadwick and Josh Craddock all making their presence felt.

There was a let-off at the other end when Danny Glover headed over from a good position before Craddock brought a good save from Chris Martin in The Valiants' goal.

It was the visitors who ended the half strongly and they managed to get their noses in front just before half-time as Simon Richman fired beyond Rene Gilmartin.

The second period began in a similar vein as Vale created a number of chances by The Saddlers' back-line kept them at bay.

As the half went on, Walsall started to see plenty of the ball but couldn't turn possession into an equaliser. With time running out, Martin was athletic to push over an effort from Craddock and from the resulting corner, some Saddlers' pressure ended with a shot wide.

It was to be the last chance of any real note as the game ended in defeat for a Walsall side that was forced to make two early changes with both Ishmel Demontagnac and Richard Davies leaving the action in the opening half-an-hour.

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Westlake, Sansara, R. Davies (Adkins), Cartwright, Schwarz, Lowe (Harris), Chadwick, Deeney, Craddock, Demontagnac (Bacchus). Subs not used: Grigg, Cox.

SHEFFIELD UNITED 2 WALSALL 3 - 27/8/2008

THE SADDLERS' second-string picked up their first win of the season with an impressive 3-2 success at Sheffield United.

"It was nice to get our first win under our belts, but even better to play well," said Eric McManus. "Both teams put out young sides who played the game the right way."

Walsall took the lead on the quarter-hour mark after Ishmel Demontagnac's mazy run was ended with him being brought down inside the penalty area. Demontagnac picked himself up and confidently slotted home the resulting spot-kick.

The home side managed to turn the scoreline around to eventually go 2-1 up, however, some good work by youth-teamer, Sam Adkins on the hour saw him cut the ball back to the far post where Troy Deeney found the net for a well-worked goal.

The winner arrived with just under ten minutes to go following some excellent work by Deeney who crossed from the left and Will Grigg hit a shot that nestled into the far corner of the net.

"The youngsters did extremely well for us," added McManus. "The likes of Ishmel Demontagnac and Troy Deeney looked particularly lively and this will stand us in good stead."

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Westlake, Sansara, Bradley, Cartwright, Schwarz, Grigg, Adkins, Deeney, Craddock, Demontagnac (Travis). Subs not used: Lowe, Patrick, Cooney.

MANSFIELD TOWN 2 WALSALL 3 (CENTRAL LEAGUE CUP FIRST ROUND), 3/9/2008

THE SADDLERS' second-string have made progress into the second round of the Central League Cup with a 3-2 win at Mansfield Town.

"It was a good, open game," said coach, John Schofield. "We played some decent football and kept the ball well against enthusiastic opposition.

"It was nice to see Rhys Weston and Michael Ricketts come through the full 90 minutes, whilst we were able to give a number of younger lads some vital competitive action."

Walsall raced into a two-goal lead through Alex Nicholls but the home side got back on level terms with a goal either side of the half-time interval.

After weathering a storm at the start of the second period, during which time youth-teamer, Niklas Gunnarsson received his marching orders for two yellow cards, The Saddlers then finished strongly and Will Grigg popped up with the winner towards the end.

On the negative side, Sofiene Zaaboub was forced to limp out of the action.

Meanwhile, former Manchester United youngster, Ashley Westwood played in the heart of the defence as a trialist.

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Weston, Sansara, Bradley, Westwood, Gunnarsson, Grigg, Craddock, Nicholls, Ricketts, Zaaboub (Westlake). Subs not used: Schwarz, Adkins, Lowe, Cox.

LINCOLN CITY 1 WALSALL 1 - 9/9/2008

THE SADDLERS' second-string shared the spoils at Lincoln City in a 1-1 draw as Rhys Weston came through another 90 minutes of action.

Walsall started the game in a positive fashion without troubling the home 'keeper too much. It was Lincoln who carved out the first real opening which Rene Gilmartin did well to keep out.

The pace of Sofiene Zaaboub was starting to have an impact as he got into the game as the first half went on and he went close on 20 minutes.

At the other end, Gilmartin did well to make an acrobatic save as the half-time interval approached and both sides went in at the break goalless.

After weathering an early storm at the start of the second period, The Saddlers took the lead on 55 minutes when a break down the right saw Darryl Westlake pull the ball back from the by-line into the path of Alex Nicholls who fired past the despairing dive of the 'keeper.

Walsall had to defend resolutely after that and when the back-line was breached, Gilmartin was in commanding form.

The ever-willing Grigg had an effort saved following an energetic run and then Nicholls blazed over from the edge of the area.

Some alert defending by Manny Smith saw him clear from in front of goal following a slip by Gilmartin on the wet surface and from the resulting corner, the home side got themselves back on level terms as a ball to the far post found Clarke whose powerful strike found its way into the net via a deflection.

The game petered out after that as both sides settled for a share of the spoils. "With a very young side, we created a number of chances and could have sealed the game," said coach, Eric McManus. "But Lincoln came back into it and in the end a draw was probably a fair result.

"It was good to see the likes of Sofiene Zaabub, Rhys Weston and Alex Nicholls all come through the full 90 minutes unscathed."

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Westlake, Sansara, Adkins, Smith, Weston, Lowe, Grigg, Nicholls, Craddock, Zaaboub. Subs not used: Travis, Cartwright, Cox.

OLDBURY UNITED 0 WALSALL 3 (BIRMINGHAM SENIOR CUP SECOND ROUND) - 17/9/2008

THE SADDLERS made it into the next round of the Birmingham Senior Cup with a commanding 3-0 victory at Oldbury United.

"It was a good team display," said coach, Eric McManus. "We could have won by a bigger margin, but the main thing was that we played the game we wanted to play it.

"We started three first-year youth lads and they did very well, whilst it was nice to see Ishmel Demontagnac and Troy Deeney get their names on the scoresheet.

"Ishmel's goal was a fine individual effort where he cut inside before sweetly firing home, whilst Troy scored twice. His first was a header from a Tom Overfield cross and the second came at the end of a slick move as Rory Wood delivered an inviting cross into his path.

"It was also encouraging to see Paul Boertien come through the full 90 minutes with no problems, however Mark Bradley took a slight knock that shouldn't effect his participation at the weekend."

SADDLERS: Rene Gilmartin; Rory Wood, Manny Smith, Hassan Bacchus, Paul Boertien; Tom Overfield, Sean Geddes, Mark Bradley (Sam Adkins), Sofiene Zaaboub; Troy Deeney, Ishmel Demontagnac. Subs not used: Jordan McCourt, Jamie Patterson, Darryl Westlake, Tom Cox,

WALSALL 2 SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY 4 - 23/9/2008

THE SADDLERS' second-string went down to a 4-2 defeat at the hands of an experienced Sheffield Wednesday outfit at the Banks's Stadium.

The visitors built up a 3-0 lead during the opening period as Leon Clarke, Francis Jeffers and Rocky Lekaj found the net.

Walsall came out with all guns blazing for the second half and pulled a goal back through young substitute, Will Grigg.

Troy Deeney then made it 3-2 as he headed home to set up an exciting finale as The Saddlers pushed for an equaliser, however, in the closing stages we were caught out as Clarke bagged his second for The Owls to complete the scoring an seal the win for his side.

Former Wolves youngster, Kevin O'Connor appeared in the Walsall side as he looks to earn a contract at the Banks's Stadium.

WALSALL: Rene Gilmartin, Darryl Westlake (Sean Geddes), Hassan Bacchus, Kevin O'Connor, Manny Smith, Mark Cartwright, Mark Lowe (Joe Howes), Josh Craddock, Troy Deeney, Sofiene Zaaboub, Ishmel Demontagnac (Will Grigg). SUBS: Alex Hickman, Tom Cox.

WALSALL 3 MANSFIELD TOWN 1 - 30/9/2008

A YOUTHFUL Saddlers' reserve team overcame Mansfield Town by three goals to one at the Banks's Stadium.

The visitors started with purpose and the experienced Jason Lee saw an effort bounce up and strike the crossbar within the opening minute.

The next attack saw Ricky Baines come up from the back to put a header wide following a corner on the Mansfield right.

The Saddlers soon started to get a grip on proceedings as Ishmel Demontagnac tried to carve an opening out only to put his effort well over.

Shortly afterwards Jon Patrick had to be alert to clear almost off the line as Anthony Robinson broke away before putting the ball past Albin Kajtezovic in the Walsall goal.

It was The Saddlers who took the lead on 17 minutes when Demontagnac crossed invitingly into the danger zone and Marco Reich picked up the ball on the far side of the area before arrowing a low shot home beyond the reach of Luke Herriott.

It was 2-0 four minutes later as Troy Deeney was played through and he calmly slotted the ball past an exposed Herriott.

Deeney then linked up with with Demontagnac whose strike was deflected wide for a corner that ultimately came to nothing as The Stags cleared their lines.

With half-time approaching, some neat play ended with Darryl Westlake getting forward from right-back to hit a powerful shot that Herriott could only push out, however, Ashley Kitchen was alert to the loose ball as he cleared ahead of the awaiting Will Grigg.

Within seconds of the restart Mansfield pulled a goal back when Warren Burrell twisted and turned inside the area before finding a way past Kajtezovic.

It didn't take long for Walsall to restore our two-goal lead as some slick passing just outside the area ended with Reich teeing up Demontagnac whose low strike took a wicked deflection on its way into the back of the net.

Straight away Grigg did well to close down the 'keeper as he looked to clear a back-pass and the rebound almost found its way home.

On 58 minutes a cleverly-worked corner found Adkins in acres of space and his long-range drive was acrobatically turned onto the crossbar by Herriott.

After Jamie McGhree had blazed well over for The Stags, Demontagnac's pacy run at the other end caused concern but came to nothing.

There was a smart block by trialist 'keeper, Kajtezovic as a Mansfield corner found its way to Robinson who hit a sharp shot on the turn from close range. In the next raid for the visitors, Burrell had an effort deflected wide.

As the clock ticked down, Reich did well to pull the ball back from the by-line into the path of Grigg whose effort was well saved on the line. Grigg then had another opportunity soon afterwards that was deflected over as he came under pressure.

A double change saw Mark Lowe and James Travis replace Adkins and Grigg respectively.

There was a flashpoint near the end as Manny Smith reacted angrily to a dangerous challenge by Tom Naylor. Both players received a yellow card for their part in the melee.

Some good defending by Lowe saw him clear Lee's clever ball to the far post as McGhee lurked before the final action of the evening saw Patrick's inviting cross cleared as the resulting corner ended with Lowe setting up Smith whose powerful drive was beaten out by Herriott.

WALSALL: Kajtezovic, Westlake, Patrick, Adkins (Lowe), Smith, Cartwright, Reich, Craddock, Deeney, Grigg (Travis), Demontagnac. Subs not used: Howes, Gunnarsson, Cooney.

WALSALL 2 DERBY COUNTY 2 (totesportcasino.com LEAGUE CUP) - 8/10/2008

THE SADDLERS' reserve team shared the spoils with a Derby County side that included three full Internationals in the totesportcasino.com League Cup group stage.

It was Walsall who took an early lead when Ishmel Demontagnac was brought crashing down as he embarked upon a positive run. It presented Marco Reich with a free-kick in a good position and the former Derby man made no mistake as he arrowed the ball home beyond the despairing dive of Ross Atkins.

The visitors soon sprang into life and were back on level terms on 22 minutes when the unfortunate Rhys Weston deflected an inviting ball into the danger zone past his own 'keeper.

The next attack saw Albin Katjezovic in The Saddlers' goal save well from Gary Teale, whilst Reich was just off target at the other end.

The second period began with Katjezovic saving well from Aleksander Prijovic who latched onto an intelligent ball from Mills.

With 50 minutes on the clock, Walsall regained the lead as Manny Smith planted a firm header home.

Youngster, Will Grigg almost added a third soon afterwards before the visitors had a goal ruled out for offside as the game developed into an entertaining affair.

A Teale effort flew well wide of the target as The Rams pushed for an equaliser before Ruben Zadkovich had an attempt deflected away from goal.

At the other end, Sam Adkins went close, but Derby got back on level terms with around 20 minutes to go as Matthew Richards crossed and Zadkovich was on hand to turn the ball home from close range.

There was a let-off for The Saddlers on 79 minutes as Richards fired wide from a good position. The same player then had the ball in the net only for the effort to be ruled out as the referee had already blown for a foul in the build-up.

The game ended in an entertaining 2-2 draw.

WALSALL: Kajtezovic, Westlake, Sansara, Adkins, Smith, Weston, Reich, Craddock (Howes), Deeney, Grigg, Demontagnac. Subs not used: Lowe, Cox, Gunnarsson, Patrick.

NOTTINGHAM FOREST 7 WALSALL 1 - 14/10/2008

THE SADDLERS' second-string fell to a heavy 7-1 defeat at Nottingham Forest.

The home side took the lead within 30 seconds and this set the tone for the rest of the evening.

It was 2-0 soon afterwards when Paul Anderson fired home following a break on the right-hand side.

Walsall managed to reduce the arrears as Josh Craddock fought his way through before firing home. The goal gave us the impetus that we craved and both Ishmel Demontagnac and Alex Nicholls went close to levelling matters as the half went on.

There was a let-off for The Saddlers when a Forest free-kick struck the underside of the crossbar and bounced out with Tom Cox beaten.

The home side came out with real purpose for the start of the second period and it wasn't long before an inviting cross from the right was touched home from close range for 3-1.

The fourth arrived on 54 minutes when Arron Davies slotted beyond Cox.

The Saddlers failed to let their heads drop and Demontagnac hit the bar before seeing a strike well saved by the home 'keeper.

Manny Smith then rattled the woodwork as Hassan Bacchus put the rebound wide of the target.

It was 5-1 when Lewis McGugan saw his shot squirm under Cox and into the net, whilst Adam Newbold added a sixth on 81 minutes.

The scoring was complete late on as Forest notched a seventh to make it a miserable night for The Saddlers in the East Midlands.

WALSALL: Tom Cox, Darryl Westlake, Netan Sansara, Hassan Bacchus, Manny Smith, Rhys Weston, Marco Reich (Will Grigg), Josh Craddock, Troy Deeney, Alex Nicholls (Sam Adkins), Ishmel Demontagnac. Subs not used: Niklas Gunnarsson, Mark Lowe, Tim Cooney.

SOLIHULL MOORS 1 WALSALL 0 (BIRMINGHAM SENIOR CUP) - 18/11/2008

THE SADDLERS' second-string slipped out of the Birmingham Senior Cup to a deflected 86th minute goal at a chilly Solihull Moors.

"All in all it was a good contest," said coach, John Schofield. "The lads applied themselves well for the majority of the game and it was good to get some of them through the full 90 minutes.

"The young lads came in and acquitted themselves well; James Travis was lively and worked hard, whilst Will Grigg came on just past the hour and also made an impact. The important thing is that the players are showing good understanding of what we want to do at all levels.

"We created several chances from open play during the course of the game and also caused problems from set-pieces, but we lacked the finishing touch and were made to pay towards the end when a deflected effort found its way past Rene Gilmartin."

Trialist defender, Richard Byrne came through the full 90 minutes. "It was his first game for a while," added Schofield. "But he came in and did all that we asked of him. He defended in a no-nonsense way and we will make our assessments of him."

WALSALL: Gilmartin, R. Davies, Smith, Byrne, Sansara, Travis (Grigg), Boertien, Bacchus, Bradley, Zaaboub, Reich. Subs not used: Adkins, Lowe, Westlake, Cox.

SHREWSBURY TOWN 5 WALSALL 1 - 17/12/2008

AN EXTREMELY young Walsall reserve team slipped to a 5-1 defeat at Shrewsbury Town in the totesport.com League Central Division.

The home side started brightly but were denied by several good early saves by Rene Gilmartin.

It was The Saddlers who took the lead in the 11th minute when Sofiene Zaaboub's inviting corner was headed home by Darryl Westlake.

Gilmartin once more came to the fore with a number of fine saves as The Shrews pushed for an equaliser. However, he was finally beaten by a penalty from Michael Symes on 33 minutes.

Shrewsbury took the lead on 48 minutes when Symes' flick-on found Jackson who headed home. Four minutes later it was 3-1 when Symes' low strike found its way beyond Albin Kajtezovic, who replaced Gilmartin at the break.

A break by The Saddlers saw Grigg link up with Zaaboub whose effort was off target.

It was 4-1 on 74 minutes as Steve Leslie did well on the right to find Andre Gray who slotted home.

The scoring was complete five minutes from the end as the lively Hibbert beat Kajtezovic.

WALSALL: Gilmartin (Kajtezovic), Wood, Bacchus, Patrick, Westlake, R. Davies, Lowe (Bowerman), Boertien, Grigg, Adkins, Zaaboub (Travis). Sub not used: Overfield.

SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY 1 WALSALL 1 - 6/1/2009

THE SADDLERS' second-string drew 1-1 with Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsborough on a chilly afternoon in Yorkshire.

After an even opening 45 minutes, it was John Schofield's side who took the lead thanks to a Richard Davies strike following some neat build-up play early in the second half..

The Owls pulled level through Nathan Modest midway through the second period to ensure honours were even in this totesport.com League Central Division clash.

"It was a very good display by a predominantly young side," said Schofield shortly after the final whistle. "We perhaps deserved to win the game, but there were plenty of encouraging signs from our boys.

"All of the lads involved deserve credit, particularly Richard Davies, Will Grigg and Sean Geddes, who adapted well to the added demands of life at this level and maintained the standards that he has been setting himself in the youth team.

"It was a good afternoons work for us."

SADDLERS: Gilmartin (Kajtezovic), Westlake, Patrick, Smith, Bacchus, Zaaboub (Overfield), Adkins, R. Davies, Geddes, Grigg, Craddock. Subs not used: Lowe, Partridge, Travis.

WALSALL 2 LINCOLN CITY 1 - 20/1/2009

CHRIS Hutchings and Martin O'Connor witnessed their first Walsall victory as the reserve team overcame the challenge of Lincoln City by two goals to one at the Banks's Stadium.

The sixth minute saw Richard Davies dip an effort just over as both teams made a lively start, although goalscoring opportunities were at a distinct premium as the half went on.

A foul on Paul Boertien, back in action after injury, on 22 minutes gave The Saddlers a free-kick in a promising position as Michael Ricketts' effort was well pushed around the post by Ayden Duffy in the visitors' goal.

Josh Craddock set Marco Reich away in the next attack but he elected to cross rather than shoot and Lincoln were able to clear their lines.

A burst down the left by Sofiene Zaaboub saw him pull the ball back invitingly into the path of Craddock but he failed to make a proper connection and the chance was lost.

The last action of the half saw a rare foray forward for The Imps as Adrian Patulea broke through only to be denied by a smart save from Rene Gilmartin.

Harry Harris replaced Ricketts during the interval and four minutes into the second period we managed to get our noses in front when a good ball from Jon Patrick picked out Hassan Bacchus who strode forward with real purpose to coolly slot home.

A sweeping move on 52 minutes ended with Davies feeding Reich whose shot deflected into the side-netting and from the resulting corner, Patrick put a towering header just over.

At the other end, Patulea fired over before Sofiene Zaaboub cut inside and put an effort just wide of the mark.

An off-the-ball push on Harris by the visiting 'keeper gave Walsall a penalty that Reich fired home to make it 2-0.

Some good defending at the far post saw Chambers block James Cooper's effort, but it wasn't long before Lincoln got back into the game as former Saddler, Stefan Oakes curled home sweetly from a free-kick.

There was a double change as Will Grigg and Sam Adkins replaced Reich and Zaaboub respectively.

With 73 minutes on the clock, Davies let fly but was off target. Then a defensive mix-up ended with Adkins getting in an effort that was saved.

Moments later Richard Simpson almst turned the ball home but somehow it was deflected over from close range as The Saddlers breathed a sigh of relief.

The last action saw Grigg tee up Chambers whose strike from distance landed well over.

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Chambers, Bacchus, Boertien, Westlake, Patrick, Reich (Grigg), R. Davies, Craddock, Ricketts (Harris), Zaaboub (Adkins). Subs not used: Geddes, Faulkner.

MACCLESFIELD TOWN 1 WALSALL 2 - 11/2/2009

A YOUTHFUL Saddlers' reserve team ran out deserved 2-1 winners at Macclesfield Town.

"We played well," said reserve team boss, Martin O'Connor. "I was very impressed with the attitude of the young lads; they worked hard and knew their positions.

"We dominated the majority of the game and it all bodes well for the future. Richard Davies notched the first just after half-time as he volleyed home and then Will Grigg flicked home the winner from Sam Adkins' cross late on.

"It was a good all-round team performance and I wouldn't want to single anyone out for praise as they all did their job."

WALSALL: Belshaw, Sansara, Smith, Patrick, Westlake, R. Davies, Bacchus, Lowe, Adkins, Grigg, Craddock. Subs not used: Geddes, Bowerman, Hickman.

WALSALL 2 SHEFFIELD UNITED 0 - 17/2/2009

AN EXTREMELY youthful Saddlers' reserve team ran out worthy 2-0 winners against Sheffield United at the Banks's Stadium.

Rene Gilmartin had to tip over a header from a corner as the visitors started on top, but it wasn't long before Walsall got a hold of the game and opened the scoring in the fifth minute when a corner found its way out to Sean Geddes who hit a powerful strike that flew beyond Jamie Annerson.

The lead was doubled on 23 minutes when a bad mistake by Kyle Walker saw him put his 'keeper under pressure with a heavy back-pass that was seized upon by the alert Josh Craddock who slotted home.

A through-ball from Richard Davies was chased by Will Grigg but Annerson got their first before a loose ball across the midfield was picked up by the lively Geddes who ran at The Blades' defence before getting in a low strike that beat the 'keeper but cannoned off the base of the post.

The Saddlers were on top for the majority of the first half as we refused to let United settle on the ball and played with a good shape.

With half-time approaching, Richard Taundry hit a powerful effort that was beaten out by Annerson as Craddock's follow-up was claimed by the 'keeper.

The last action of the half saw Davies and Craddock link up well just outside the area as Craddock's shot was blocked and Sam Adkins blazed the rebound well over.

United came out for the second half looking to make an early impact but The Saddlers' defence stood firm and coped with everything that came their way.

There was a change on the hour as Tom Overfield replaced Taundry.

Some good battling play by Adkins saw him look to release Craddock who was just caught offside.

At the other end, Aymen Tahar's low effort from the edge of the area was gathered by Gilmartin before another change saw James Travis replace Craddock.

Travis' first involvement in the action saw him deliver a cross from the right-hand side of the area that was met by Overfield but he was denied by Annerson.

With Joe Howes on in place of Grigg, Walsall failed to clear their lines properly and Walker saw his effort well saved by Gilmartin who pushed the ball around the post.

Shortly afterwards, Howes showed a clean pair of heels to close in on goal and his attempt to lift the ball over the 'keeper landed just wide.

On 80 minutes, Sansara's cross-cum-shot landed on the top of the goal with the 'keeper scrambling backwards.

The final action saw a low shot drilled in by Walker which was well pushed out by Gilmartin as Walsall claimed a solid victory.

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Taundry (Overfield), Sansara, Patrick, Wood, R. Davies, Bacchus Geddes, Adkins, Craddock (Travis), Grigg (Howes). Sub not used: Belshaw.

MANSFIELD TOWN 0 WALSALL 2 - 11/3/2009

A YOUTHFUL Saddlers' reserve team ran out 2-0 winners at Mansfield Town.

"We were poor in our approach to the game in the first half," admitted reserve team boss, Martin O'Connor. "We looked rusty and as though we hadn't played together for a while.

"After a few words at half-time, we got to grips with the game, playing at a good tempo, and in the end we ran out deserved winners.

"Our first goal came following a great move as Richard Taundry linked up with Will Grigg who fed Josh Craddock and he unselfishly squared for Sam Adkins to slot home.

"The second goal saw Taundry play a one-two with trialist Terry Hawkridge whose cross-cum-shot found its way into the far corner.

"Rene Gilmartin made a great save near the end, whilst it was good to be able to give the likes of Richard Taundry, Mark Bradley and Netan Sansara a run-out."

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Taundry (Wood), Sansara, Bacchus, Hickman (Patrick), Bradley (Geddes), R. Davies, Adkins, Craddock, Grigg, Hawkridge. Subs not used: Belshaw, Bowerman.

WALSALL 2 MACCLESFIELD TOWN 2 - 18/3/2009

A LAST-GASP penalty from Netan Sansara gave The Saddlers' second-string a 2-2 draw against Macclesfield Town at a spring-like Banks's Stadium.

A foul on Will Grigg gave Walsall a free-kick in a promising position in the opening minute but Netan Sansara's effort was blocked by the defensive wall.

The visitors took the lead a couple of minutes later when skipper Jamie Tolley's low drive across the face of goal was seized upon by Paul Tocco who poked home from close range.

The Saddlers managed to break the offside trap only for Sam Adkins to blaze over, whilst at the other end, Neil Harvey's deft header from a free-kick crept just wide of the post.

Christian Dennis hooked the ball over for The Silkmen as Walsall were restricted to only a limited number of chances.

Trialist Terry Hawkridge fired over with 11 minutes to go until half-time before an excellent through-ball by the advancing Darryl Westlake set Grigg through but he was denied by a timely block from Matthew Towns in the visitors' goal.

Westlake was involved in the action again on the stroke of half-time when his high ball into the box was spilled by Towns and Adkins turned the loose ball narrowly wide of the target.

The Saddlers ended the half on top, hopeful of getting back into the game in the second period.

Some good early defending by Westlake saw him clear Harvey's inviting ball to the far post at the start of the second half. Then Kyle Frazier-Allen's ball flashed across the face of goal as the visitors started with purpose.

On 53 minutes the ball deflected out to Grigg off Darren Torpey but his low drive was comfortably gathered by Towns.

Netan Sansara linked up well with Adkins on the left and his ball across found its way to Jon Patrick who was off target with his low strike.

Just before the hour, Mark Lowe replaced Hawkridge and the youth teamer was soon involved in the action as he did well on the right to feed Craddock who found himself in space on the edge of the area and he fired home to make it 1-1.

There was a further change as James Travis took the place of Grigg.

With a group of youngsters from The Saddlers Learning Centre cheering the team on, Walsall looked the most likely side as the half went on.

Craddock held the ball up well to find Lowe whose cross in search of Craddock in the middle saw the striker take a knock for his troubles as he challenged the 'keeper.

The lively Lowe almost unlocked the visitors' defence on 85 mnutes as he looked for Travis but Towns was alert to make life difficult.

The Saddlers were looked to catch Macclesfield on the break late on until an 87th minute frr-kick was teasingly delivered by Tocco to find Matthew Flynn who found the net from close range.

In the aftermath, Geddes tried his luck from distance as the ball sailed inches wide, but the equaliser duly came right at the death as a handball presented Walsall with a penalty that Sansara tucked home.

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Westlake, Sansara, Bacchus, Patrick, R. Davies, Adkins, Geddes, Craddock, Grigg (Travis), Hawkridge (Lowe). Subs not used: Cooney, Partridge, Wood.

WALSALL 0 NOTTINGHAM FOREST 1 - 24/3/2009

A YOUTHFUL Saddlers' reserve team slipped to a narrow 1-0 defeat at the hands of Nottingham Forest at The Lamb.

A scrappy first half saw Josh Craddock go close on a couple of occasions, whilst James Belshaw did well to deny Liam Hook and Ryan Whitehurst.

With half-time approaching, Darryl Westlake went close from a corner as the half ended goalless.

Forest started the second period brightly with Adam Newbold and James Reid going close. At the other end Craddock was thwarted by Paddy Gamble who saved at full stretch.

The Saddlers were starting to get into their stride as Will Grigg fed Sean Geddes who fired over from distance, however, the visitors snatched the lead when Belshaw saved from Whitehurst but Hamza Bencherif was on hand to head home the rebound just past the hour-mark.

There were chances at either end as Walsall's youngsters coudn't find a way back into the game.

"I was pleasantly surprised by the attitude of our youngsters," said reserve team boss, Martin O'Connor. "It was a bobbly pitch and it made life difficult for both teams to play a passing game.

"We coped with the threat that they possessed but lacked a killer instinct in the final third of the pitch.

"It's a learning curve for the boys and hopefully they will benefit from it.

"A draw would have been a fair result but we were punished by a lapse in concentration at the back."

WALSALL: Belshaw, Wood, Adkins, Westlake, Partridge, R. Davies (Overfield), Lowe, Geddes, Craddock (Travis), Grigg, McCourt. Subs not used: Cooney, Hickman, Howes.

PORT VALE 2 WALSALL 1 - 1/4/2009

THE SADDLERS' second-string slipped to a 2-1 defeat at Port Vale.

The home side grabbed a fifth minute lead but Walsall went on to carve out a couple of decent chances before Michael Ricketts levelled matters just before the break.

A disappointing second half showing resulted in The Valiants regaining the lead to secure the points. "It was a generally poor performance," said reserve team boss, Martin O'Connor. "Too many of our players lacked appetite and energy on the night.

"The one plus point was the performance of young goalkeeper, James Belshaw. He made a couple of outstanding saves and also saved a penalty.

"The players have to take stock and make sure that they get back to the work ethic that we know they are capable of.

"We created a number of chances in the first half but lacked a killing instinct and then huffed and puffed after the break without causing enough problems."

WALSALL: Belshaw, Westlake, Adkins, Bacchus, Partridge, R. Davies, Lowe, Taundry (Halil), Craddock (Travis), Ricketts (Grigg), Geddes. Subs not used: Cooney, McCourt.

WALSALL 0 SHREWSBURY TOWN 2 - 21/4/2009

THE SADDLERS' second-string ended their totesport.com League Central Division campaign in disappointing fashion with a 2-0 home reverse at the hands of Shrewsbury Town.

"I was very disappointed in the way that we were beaten," said reserve team boss, Martin O'Connor. "Our visitors showed better application and attitude than our boys and we must use it as a learning curve.

"We have some good players here, but on this occasion we were well beaten."

WALSALL: Ince, Martin, Westlake, Bacchus, Partridge, R. Davies, Taundry, Mattis (Grigg), Craddock, Lake-Gaskin, Sansara (Adkins). Subs not used: McCourt, Hickman, Cooney.

COVENTRY CITY 1 WALSALL 2 - 29/8/2007

THE SADDLERS' second-string made a winning start to their Pontin's Holidays League Central Division campaign with a fine 2-1 victory against Coventry City at Nuneaton Borough's new Liberty Way ground.

Eric McManus' side deservedly took the lead in the tenth minute following some positive play from Alex Nicholls. His eventual shot was pushed out by the home 'keeper into the path of Troy Deeney who was alert to fire home.

It was Walsall who were enjoying the majority of the possession, however, The Sky Blues managed to get themselves back on level terms going into the break.

The second period continued in much the same vein and The Saddlers' second goal was worthy of winning the game as a sweeping move out of defence ended with trailist Joao Batista Mawete firing home into the far corner with a sweet strike.

Deeney hit the post whilst the home side survived a couple of real scares as Walsall deservedly started the season with three points. "First and foremost it was very pleasing to start with such a good team performance," enthused Eric McManus at the final whistle. "There were some solid displays throughout the side and I am delighted that we have been able to come to a Championship club and get what was a deserved victory.

"It all bodes well for the future challenges that we face in this League."

WALSALL: Bertrand Bossu; Richard Taundry, Netan Sansara, Manny Smith, Ian Roper; Edrissa Sonko, Mark Bradley, David McDermott (Chris Hanna); Alex Nicholls, Troy Deeney (Richard Davies), Joao Batista Mawete (Harry Harris). Subs not used: Charlton Davies, Leon Quarless, Tom Cox (GK).

WALSALL 2 WOLVES 1 - 5/9/2007

A YOUTHFUL Saddlers' reserve team have come from behind to beat local rivals, Wolves in the Pontin's Holidays League Central Division.

It was a competitive opening with both sides starting full of energy.

Michael Gray fired over for Wolves in the tenth minute and Alex Nicholls did the same at the other end four minutes later.

A burst through the middle by Joao Batista Mawete ended with his low shot being pushed out by Graham Stack in the visitors' goal.

Then David McDermott showed fine vision to thread a ball through for Nicholls to run on to but he snatched at his shot and put the ball wide.

Within a couple of minutes Wolves had their noses in front when some hesitation in defence was seized upon by Liam Hughes who fired home from inside the area.

It was rough justice on The Saddlers' young side, but we kept at it and Charlton Davies who a free-kick in a dangerous position just past the half-hour mark which McDermott delivered into the danger zone but the ball was cleared for a corner.

With the half coming to a close, Mawete did well to hold off Kevin O'Connor as he latched onto a long ball forward. His shot was well saved from point-blank range by Stack who ensured that his side went in at the break leading by one goal to nil.

The second period started with McDermott arrowing a shot over from distance before Mawete made it 1-1 as the ball rebounded into his path following a decent save from Stack who denied Nicholls. The Angolan International made no mistake as he slotted home.

Within a couple of minutes The Saddlers were in front when a teasing free-kick from the right was met by a towering header from skipper Scott Dann.

As the visitors tried to get back into the game, Bossu did well to maintain our lead as Elliott Bennett looked to cause problems.

Deeney was replaced by Harry Harris and he was soon involved in the action as he was teed up by Nicholls only to fire just wide of the target.

Another intelligent ball from McDermott in the middle of the park set Nicholls racing away on 76 minutes but his low strike was blocked by Stack.

It was to be Nicholls' last action as he was replaced by youth team hot-shot, Alan Wilkes who has five goals to his name from two youth team appearances this term.

With two minutes left on the clock, Bossu again did well to deny Stephen Elliott who managed to dig out a shooting chance despite being out-numbered.

Elliott carved open another chance a minute later but again Bossu got the better of him as he held on to his low effort.

Wolves finished the game strongly and in injury time at the end, Bossu produced an acrobatic stop to seal am excellent victory for Eric McManus' young side.

WALSALL: Bossu, Taundry, Sansara, C. Davies, Dann, T. Schwarz, Hanna, Mawete, Deeney (Harris), McDermott, Nicholls (Wilkes). Subs not used: R. Davies, Silver, Cox.

WALSALL 1 WEST BROMWICH ALBION 2 - 11/9/2007

THE SADDLERS' young reserve side put up a brave performance against West Bromwich Albion but ultimately went down to a narrow 2-1 defeat.

A pacy burst by David Worrall in the fifth minute saw him find a way through The Saddlers' back-line only to be denied by Bertrand Bossu at full stretch as he tried to lift the ball over him.

Walsall were being pegged back for much of the opening exchanges but came to life in the 12th minute when firstly Richard Taundry's ball forward was perfect for Troy Deeney whose shot was blocked by Luke Steele in the visitors' goal.

Deeney turned provider a minute later when he latched onto a long ball out of defence before his cross from the right was met with a diving header from Joao Batista Mawete which beat Steele to open the scoring.

It was Mawete's third goal in as many reserve team outings.

On the quarter-hour mark a powerful drive by Bartosz Slusarski beat Bossu but was superbly headed off the line by skipper, Mark Bradley as Albion put the rebound wide of the target.

Ishmael Miller used his strength to good effect as he powered through only to blaze his effort over, whilst Alex Nicholls cut inside from the right at the other end to send a shot past Steele but just the wrong side of the crossbar.

After Tininho's cleever through-ball set Miller racing away, his low strike beat the advancing Bossu but crept inches wide.

The visitors eventually got back on level terms just before the break when a deep cross from the left evaded Leon Quarless at the far post and fell to Miller who made no mistake by lashing home to level matters going into the break.

There was a change for The Saddlers at the interval as Chris Hanna replaced Quarless.

A foul by Ishmel Demontagnac on Miller gave Albion a free-kick which Richard Chaplow delivered onto the head of Bostjan Cesar who was up from the back, but his effort went over.

Chaplow was then booked for a crunching challenge on Nicholls before a Mawete foul gave Albion a free-kick which Miller drilled narrowly wide.

With 56 minutes on the clock, a nice touch by Mawete played in Deeney who in turn set Hanna away out wide on the right. His low cross was scrambled clear ahead of Mawete.

At the other end, Jared Hodgkiss' inviting cross found Worrall whose deft touch had to be clawed away by Bossu.

There was a change for the visitors as Miller was replaced by Ricky Nicholls and they went on to take the lead with 20 minutes to go when a corner from the left was met by Cesar who planted a header home.

Demontagnac saw yellow shortly afterwards for a foul in the centre circle.

A sloppy back-pass by Cesar was seized upon by Deeney but Steele was alert to the danger to block.

There was an excellent low save by Bossu at the other end as the Frenchman got down well to push out a Nicholls drive that took a wicked deflection off Manny Smith as The Saddlers failed to clear their lines.

Bossu was called into action again from the resulting corner as he pushed out Chaplow's long-range drive.

A threaded through-ball by Bradley fell into the path of Mawete but his shot was kept out by Steele.

With time running out, The Saddlers pushed men forward and McDermott linked up with Deeney who battled hard to set up a shooting chance for Nicholls only for Albion to block.

In the closing stages, a foul on Mawete presented Demontagnac with a free-kick in a promising position but he was well off target and with it went Walsall's chances of taking something from the game.

WALSALL: Bossu, Taundry, Sansara, Bradley, Smith, Quarless (Hanna), Nicholls, Mawete, Deeney, McDermott, Demontagnac. Subs not used: Harris, T. Schwarz, R. Davies, Cox.

SHREWSBURY TOWN 1 WALSALL 3 - 17/9/2007

THE SADDLERS' second-string chalked up a convincing 3-1 victory at the New Meadow, home of Shrewsbury Town.

"The lads can be pleased with their performance," said reserve team boss, Eric McManus. "We controlled the game from start to finish and ran out worthy winners.

"We took the lead early on when Richard Taundry did well to set up Troy Deeney who powerfully headed home.

"We didn't push on enough for the remainder of the opening period, but after a few words from the gaffer at half-time, we really took control after the break and in the end could have won by more.

"Deeney grabbed his second on the hour-mark following some neat play which ended with an intelligent through-ball from David McDermott.

"Our third goal game with around ten minutes to go when substitute, Charlton Davies set up Alex Nicholls.

"Again there were plenty of positive aspects to take from the game."

WALSALL: Bossu, Taundry, Sansara, Bradley, Smith, McDermott (Quarless), Nicholls, Dobson, Deeney (Harris), Mawete, Demontagnac (C. Davies). Subs not used: Bacchus, Cox.

NOTTINGHAM FOREST 2 WALSALL 0 - 25/9/2007

THE SADDLERS' second-string slipped to a 2-0 at the hands of table-topping Nottingham Forest in the Pontin's Holidays League.

Alan Power put the East Midlanders in front after three minutes and Felix Bastians added a second five minutes from the interval.

Despite having the lions share of possession in the second period, Eric McManus' side couldn't find a way through ensuring Forest maintained their 100% start to the season.

"At one-nil down, we missed a penalty and then hit the crossbar," said reserve team boss, Eric McManus. "We were always in the game but, to be fair, we didn't play as well as we have done in recent reserve games.

"Forest put out an experienced side and in the end we didn't do enough to take anything out of the game."

WALSALL: Bertrand Bossu; Richard Taundrey, Netan Sansara, Mark Bradley (c), Manny Smith, Charlton Davies, Alex Nicholls, Joao Batista Mawete (Chris Hanna 71), Troy Deeney, David McDermott, Ishmel Demontagnac. UNUSED SUBS: Harry Harris, Andrew Bentley, Leon Quarless, Tom Cox (GK).

WILLENHALL TOWN 0 WALSALL 3 (BIRMINGHAM SENIOR CUP FIRST ROUND) - 3/10/2007

THE SADDLERS breezed into the second round of the Birmingham Senior Cup with a 3-0 victory over Willenhall Town.

We were in control for much of the game and took the lead with around ten minutes to go until half-time when David McDermott found the net with a well-taken free-kick.

Our advantage was doubled just after the restart when McDermott turned provider to set up Alex Nicholls who fired home with a low effort.

The scoring was complete just past the hour when Rhys Weston seized upon some sloppy defensive play by the home side.

Ian Roper came through the full 90 minutes after recently being laid low with a viral infection, whilst Joao Batista Mawete led the forward line.

WALSALL: Bossu, Taundry, Weston (Bacchus), Roper, Sansara, Nicholls, McDermott (Harris), C. Davies, Einarsson, Hanna (Quarless), Mawete. Subs not used: T. Schwarz, Cox.

WALSALL 2 OLDHAM ATHLETIC 2 - 10/10/2007

THE SADDLERS' second-string had to settle for a share of the spoils against Oldham Athletic in a 2-2 draw here at the Banks's Stadium.

After Troy Deeney had put an effort wide in the opening minute, David McDermott's corner found the head of Icelandic trialist, Gylfi Einarsson who powered a header just wide of the target.

The visitors were showing plenty of early endeavour and caused The Saddlers' defence problems.

They eventually got their noses in front on 13 minutes when Matty Wolfenden hit a shot on the turn on the edge of the area that flew past Bertrand Bossu.

It gave Walsall the nudge that they needed and a couple of minutes later McDermott's free-kick caused panic before being scrambled clear in front of goal.

The next chance saw Ian Roper's long free-kick headed on to Joao Batista Mawete who blazed well over.

As the half wore on, The Saddlers were seeing plenty of the ball but not able to get our game together against a sharp and lively Oldham side.

A foul on Deeney gave McDermott a free-kick in a good position, but his deliver wasn't good enough as the visitors were able to head clear.

After Netan Sansara had been booked for a foul out wide, the half came to a close with McDermott seeing an effort held by youngster Josh Ollerenshaw in The Latics' goal.

The second half started with an early break by Gary McDonald who set up Alessandra whose shot hit the side-netting.

At the other end, Manny Smith headed over from a McDermott corner before a weak header back almost let in Deeney, however Ollerenshaw was alert to the danger to clear just outside his area.

With 56 minutes on the clock, Mawete flicked on a corner as a combination of Trotman and Ollerenshaw managed to scramble the ball away from virtually on the line.

The Saddlers finally got back on level terms when Alex Nicholls drilled a low shot home from distance just past the hour-mark.

As Walsall pushed for a second, Charlton Davies played in Mawete who was denied by the 'keeper.

The visitors went back in front following an error by Roper who gave the ball away to Aaron Chalmers and he made no mistake to lash the ball beyond Bossu.

There was a change as Chris Hanna replaced Mawete before Einarsson saw yellow for a foul as The Latics looked to break through.

After Harry Harris had replaced Davies, a neat move down the left saw Nicholls combine well with Netan Sansara who delivered an inviting cross which was met by a firm header from Hanna that flew into the net to make it 2-2.

There was a late booking for McDermott for a foul of Wolfenden as he looked to make progress out wide but thankfully the resulting free-kick came to nothing as honours ended even.

WALSALL: Bossu, Taundry, Sansara, C. Davies (Harris), Smith, Roper, Mawete (Hanna), Einarsson, Deeney, McDermott, Nicholls. Subs not used: Quarless, Silver, Cox.

HUDDERSFIELD TOWN 0 WALSALL 1 - 23/10/2007

THE SADDLERS' second-string recorded a hard-earned 1-0 win at a chilly Galpharm Stadium.

We started the game brightly and the first action saw Darren Wrack, back after a hamstring injury, cut inside from the right before dragging an effort wide.

Shortly afterwards Charlton Davies went close before Paul Hall saw an effort saved by the home 'keeper.

Huddersfield started to get into their stride as the first half went on and enjoyed some good possession.

A cross from Matthew Young required Manny Smith to defend well in front of his own goal before Daniel Broadbent showed good pace as he got in between The Saddlers' back-line only for his tame effort to be easily saved by Bertrand Bossu.

Paul Hall's cross on the half-hour almost caused an own goal as the resulting corner saw The Terriers break on the counter-attack with an inviting low ball into the danger zone bravely saved by Bossu at the feet of Malcher.

The game developed into something of an end-to-end affair with Joao Batista Mawete in particular going close as Alex Smithies in the home goal saved well.

Our hosts were reduced to ten men as half-time approached when Tom Jackson was dismissed for a professional foul on Hall. The resulting free-kick heaped more misery on The Terriers as Wrack found the net as the ball appeared to take a slight deflection on the way.

Mawete went close with a header on the stroke of half-time as The Saddlers went in one-goal up at the break.

After Netan Sansara had seen yellow for a robust challenge, we started to play some decent football.

However, Broadbent's pace caused more concern at the other end as he lifted the ball just over the crossbar from a good position.

With Chris Hanna on in place of Charlton Davies, Alex Nicholls was booked for failing to retreat at a free-kick.

Hanna then saw an effort hit the bar as we pushed for a second goal.

There was a further change as youth-teamer, Hassan Bacchus replaced Mawete as the game ended with Bailey seeing an effort saved by Bossu as The Saddlers held on for a good three points.

WALSALL: Bossu, Taundry, Sansara, C. Davies (Hanna), Smith, Roper, Wrack, Mawete (Bacchus), Nicholls, McDermott, Hall. Subs not used: Harris, Quarless, Skeldon.

WALSALL 0 PORT VALE 1 - 30/10/2007

THE SADDLERS' second-string were denied victory by the combination of an in-form opposition goalkeeper and the woodwork as Port Vale chalked up a 1-0 win at the Banks's Stadium.

A neat move in the second minute saw Alex Nicholls find Paul Hall out wide and his cross was met by the head of Troy Deeney whose effort brought a good save from Mark Goodlad.

Manny Smith made his presence felt at a corner as Ian Roper smashed the loose ball against the crossbar from close range.

Another Hall cross flashed invitingly across the face of goal just past the quarter-hour mark as The Saddlers made a lively start.

An excellent long ball by Richard Taundry picked David McDermott who teed up Charlton Davies for a low strike that Goodlad managed to push out.

In the next attack, Netan Sansara blazed over before Taundry's cross on 28 minutes found Deeney in space right in front of goal but he disappointly directed his header straight at the grateful Goodlad.

Taundry was involved in the thick of the action again shortly aftrewards when his piledriver from distance struck the crossbar with the 'keeper rooted to the spot.

At the other end, Taundry's mistake let in Calum Willock who was denied by Bertrand Bossu as The Saddlers managed to scramble the loose ball to safety.

It was Walsall who were on top for the majority of the opening period and Goodlad once more did well to deny McDermott as we carved open the visitors' back-line.

The second half started with Roper seeing his header deflected over from a corner which came to nothing.

At the other end, Danny Glover dragged his hot wide from a good position before The Valiants took the lead just before the hour-mark when Willock's header somehow found its way underneath Bossu.

The Saddlers were awarded a penalty on 61 minutes when Sansara was felled just inside the area and Deeney stepped up to see his spot-kick kept out by Goodlad.

Walsall continued to find themselves on top as McDermott fired a low shot just wide before the same player saw a powerful strike bravely blocked by Charlie O'Loughlin.

Another fine save from Goodlad denied Nicholls following a sweeping move. Nicholls then saw another attempt kept out by the in-form 'keeper following a corner.

With Chris Hanna on in place of Harris, a last-minute strike from Ross Davidson through a crowd of players was well saved by Bossu, whilst at the other end our last chance saw Deeney find space inside the area only for Goodlad to push his shot over the crossbar.

WALSALL: Bossu, Taundry, Sansara, C. Davies, Smith, Roper, Harris (Hanna), Nicholls, Deeney, McDermott, Hall. Subs not used: R. Davies, Ryan, Silver, Skeldon.

LEICESTER CITY 4 WALSALL 3 - 12/11/2007

THE SADDLERS' reserve team came close to nicking a point at Leicester City in a game which saw us trail by four goals at one stage.

"Defensively we were poor in the first half," admitted coach, Jimmy Mullen. "We allowed ourselves to be dragged all over the place and I would have expected us to have coped much better.

"We went in at the interval 3-0 down and it really was a true reflection of the game at that stage.

"We used half-time to sort a few things out and looked much better in the second half. That said, we still found ourselves four goals down and looked a well beaten side.

"However, credit to the lads as they never gave in and kept plugging away. We pulled a goal back with 15 minutes to go when David McDermott's corner was powerfully headed home by Ian Roper who had come up from the back.

"Our second goal arrived within four minutes when some neat play on the right saw an inviting ball delivered to substitute, Alan Wilkes who made no mistake.

"With five minutes to go, Alex Nicholls found the net to make it 4-3 and in the closing stages we had a couple of opportunities to equalise which we failed to take.

"In the end we were undone by our first half performance."

WALSALL: Skeldon, C. Davies, Sansara, Taundry (Ravenhill), Smith, Roper, Nicholls, Mawete (Harris), Deeney, McDermott, Demontagnac (Wilkes). Subs not used: Bacchus, Cox.

SUTTON COLDFIELD TOWN 2 WALSALL 3 (BIRMINGHAM SENIOR CUP SECOND ROUND) - 19/11/2007

THE SADDLERS made progress into the third round of the Birmingham Senior Cup following a hard-fought 3-2 victory at Sutton Coldfield Town.

Walsall hit the home side with three goals in an eight-minute spell early in the second half.

Richard Taundry, who was given his first taste of first-team action at the weekend, notched the first on the 50-minute mark before further goals followed from Troy Deeney and Charlton Davies.

WALSALL: Bossu, Doran, Sansara, C. Davies, Smith, Roper, Taundry, Mawete (Westlake), Nicholls, Deeney, McDermott. Subs not used: Woollaston, Travis, Cox.

WALSALL 5 BRADFORD CITY 2 - 27/11/2007

A YOUTHFUL Saddlers' reserve team have chalked up a 5-2 victory over Bradford City at The Lamb.

On a chilly afternoon, we started the game well and deservedly took the lead in the 27th minute when Alex Nicholls beat Jamie Waite in the visitors' goal.

Within ten minutes our advantage was doubled when David McDermott saw his shot take a deflection on its way past Waite.

It was a convincing display from Walsall in the opening period and right on the stroke of half-time, some good work on the left by youth-teamer, Hassan Bacchus saw him find Nicholls who in turn set up Troy Deeney who made no mistake.

The Saddlers were forced into a change during the interval when McDermott hobbled out of the action to be replaced by Andrew Bentley.

Bradford came out of the blocks sharply for the second half and on 50 minutes a poor back-pass put Bertrand Bossu under pressure and he conceded a penalty which was converted to reduce the arrears.

Some sloppy play gave The Bantams a second goal with ten minutes to go to make it 3-2.

Youth team striker, Dexter Ravenhill was on in place of Bacchus and he made it 4-2 with just four minutes left on the clock as he latched onto a Nicholls pass.

The fifth goal arrived right at the death when an inviting cross from Richard Taundry was headed powerfully home by Deeney. "We put in a very impressive performance in the first half," commented Youth Liaison Officer, Bill Jones immediately after the final whistle. "We lost our way a little after the break, but all in all our young lads did well and deserved to win the game."

WALSALL: Bossu, Taundry, Bacchus (Ravenhill), C. Davies, Smith, T. Schwarz, R. Davies, Nicholls, Deeney, McDermott (Bentley), Sansara. Subs not used: Wilkes, D. Schwarz, Ryan.

STOKE CITY 0 WALSALL 2 - 5/12/2007

THE SADDLERS' second-string have beaten their Stoke City counterparts by two goals to nil this afternoon.

Strikes from Alex Nicholls and Charlton Davies earned Jimmy Mullen's side a well-deserved victory. "Against very strong opposition we put in an outstanding team performance," said Mullen immediately after the final whistle. "We knew that it was going to be a big test, but we were well up for it and played well throughout.

"We deservedly took the lead in the first half when Alex Nicholls found the net following some good work by Troy Deeney.

"At half-time Eric McManus and I just told the lads to go out there and maintain their high standards in the second period and they did just that.

"Our second goal epitomised everything about the performance as Charlton Davies found the net with a stunning half-volley from all of 30 yards. It gave the experienced Russell Hoult in the home goal absolutely no chance.

"All in all we passed the ball well and were solid defensively with Bertrand Bossu only called into action on a couple of occasions.

"It was a very good afternoons work by all involved."

WALSALL: Bossu, Taundry, Sansara, C. Davies, Smith, Roper, Hanna, Mawete, Deeney, Nicholls, Demontagnac. Subs not used: R. Davies, Ravenhill, T. Schwarz, Bacchus, Skeldon.

WOLVES 2 WALSALL 0 - 18/12/2007

THE SADDLERS' second-string lost 2-0 against a vastly experienced Wolves side.

"We just couldn't get going in the first half," admitted Eric McManus. "Wolves fielded an extremely strong side and Mick McCarthy even said before the game that this could be his first-team.

"We kept them at bay until the stroke of half-time when they got their noses in front.

"We made a few changes for the second period as we introduced a few more youngsters and went on to give a better account of ourselves, creating several half-chances before they doubled their advantage on the hour-mark.

"There were numerous positives to take out of the game. Paul Boertien returned to action and got a full 90 minutes under his belt. It was a tough test for him on his return, but in typical fashion he knuckled down and did well. We were very pleased with him."

Ishmel Demontagnac was red-carded for a second bookable offence.

WALSALL: Bossu, Taundry, Boertien, Smith, Roper, Hall, Harris (Silver), Demontagnac, Nicholls, Mawete (C. Jones), Ravenhill (R. Davies). Subs not used: Wilkes, T. Schwarz.

WALSALL 1 COVENTRY CITY 1 - 09/01/2008

THE SADDLERS' second-string drew 1-1 with Coventry City in the Pontin's Holidays League.

"We made a slow start to the game and found ourselves a goal down early on," said reserve boss, Jimmy Mullen. "The start set us back and we were always chasing the game in the first half.

"Coventry were the more physical side and we felt that we could put things right during the half-time interval by changing a few things around and that proved to be the case.

"We were much more positive all over the park and matched them physically. A goalmouth scramble ended with Ian Roper firing home and once we were back on level terms, we enjoyed the majority of the possession, but just couldn't get the winner.

"Paul Boertien got another 90 minutes under his belt, playing at left-back in the first half and in midfield after the restart. It was also good to get some of the younger lads into the action.

"All in all, we were disappointing in the first half and much better in the second half."

WALSALL: Bossu, Taundry, Boertien, C. Davies (R. Davies), Smith, Roper, Brittain (Jones), Hanna, Hall, McDermott, Ceesay (Silver). Subs not used: Ravenhill, Wilkes.

RUSHALL OLYMPIC 1 WALSALL 0 (BIRMINGHAM SENIOR CUP THIRD ROUND) - 16/1/2008

THE SADDLERS' went out of the Birmingham Senior Cup following a 1-0 defeat at Rushall Olympic.

"In heavy conditions we made the worst possible start," said coach, Jimmy Mullen. "We conceded a poor early goal following a defensive mix-up.

"After that, Rushall never really caused us problems, apart from a couple of half-chances. We went on to create opportunities but were unable to make the most of them and in the end it cost us dear.

"We put enough crosses into the danger zone, but it was just not to be. The positive aspect was that both Michael Dobson and Paul Boertien were able to get 90 minutes under their belts on an energy-sapping pitch, whilst there were a number of youngsters involved."

Chris Hanna was sent off in the second half for The Saddlers.

WALSALL: Skeldon, C. Davies, Sansara, Boertien, Smith, Roper, Brittain (R. Davies), Dobson, Hanna, McDermott, Ravenhill (Jones). Subs not used: Silver, Bacchus, Cox.

WALSALL 2 HUDDERSFIELD TOWN 1 - 13/2/2008

GOALS from Michael Dobson and Ishmel Demontagnac earned The Saddlers' second-string a deserved 2-1 victory over Huddersfield Town at a sunny Banks's Stadium.

The early action saw Dobson thread a ball through for Chris Hanna whose lob over the advancing 'keeper had the sting taken out of it which allowed the visitors to clear.

At the other end, Daniel Racchi got his head onto a deep cross to the far post from the right but was just off target.

A pacy break on the right by Malvin Kamara saw his low cross spilled by Bertrand Bossu as Manny Smith cleared the loose ball to safety.

The Saddlers were unable to hold onto the ball in the opening exchanges, however, some exciting wing play by Ishmel Demontagnac on 25 minutes saw him force a corner which ultimately came to nothing.

A fine through-ball by Harry Harris set Hanna racing away and his effort was superbly blocked by Simon Eastwood as the half ended goalless.

The second period started with Walsall taking the lead on 48 minutes when Netan Sansara fed Dobson whose shot took a wicked deflection that wrong-footed the 'keeper.

Shortly afterwards Racchi saw a drive well pushed over by Bossu, whilst Eastwood in The Terriers' goal had to be alert to deny Harris who beat the offside trap.

Just before the hour-mark a Huddersfield corner fell out to Malvin Kamara and his powerful strike was well saved by Bossu.

An attack for the visitors broke down when the referee inadvertently got in the way of the ball and this allowed The Saddlers to launch an attack of their own which ended with Demontagnac denied by Eastwood's block.

There was a change as Alassane N'Dour was replaced by Dan Schwarz before the lively Kamara went on a mazy run for the Yorkshiremen which ended with his low strike landing inches wide with Bossu beaten.

We doubled our advantage on 68 minutes when Demontagnac curled home a sweet free-kick from just outside the area.

Harris was replaced by Cameron Jones and he made an immediate impact by unsettling the visitors' defence to set up David McDermott who was crowded out.

Shortly afterwards Hanna forced the 'keeper into an error as he looked to clear just outside the area. Hanna's effort from a tight angle crept agonisingly wide.

A foul by Sansara on Kamara earned him a yellow card and the visitors a free-kick in a good position which Joe Skarz stepped up to curl home with a fine left-footed effort that gave Bossu no chance.

It set up an exciting finale as youth teamer, Dexter Ravenhill replaced Hanna.

With time running out, the hard-working Dobson found some space just outside the area and he cleverly played in Jones to his right who managed to get in a shot that required another smart block by Eastwood.

There was just time for Demontagnac to see yellow for a foul as Walsall's young team held on for victory.

WALSALL: Bossu, C. Davies, Sansara, N'Dour (D. Schwarz), Smith, T. Schwarz, Hanna (Ravenhill), Dobson, Harris (Jones), McDermott, Demontagnac. Subs not used: Bacchus, R. Davies.

WALSALL 0 LEICESTER CITY 1 - 26/2/2008

THE SADDLERS' second-string slipped to a 1-0 defeat to Leicester City as the visitors grabbed a late winner.

An inviting low ball across the face of goal by Troy Deeney on four minutes just evaded Ishmel Demontagnac at the far post.

Some battling play by Stefan Moore shortly afterwards saw him line up a shot that was blocked, whilst Demontagnac flashed a ball across the face of goal in the next attack.

A long ball out of defence by Michael Dobson, who was used in a central defensive role alongside skipper Manny Smith, saw him pick out Deeney whose intelligent ball set up Moore for a strike that was deflected wide for a corner.

The resulting flag-kick saw Deeney's shot at the far post gathered by Paul Henderson.

With quarter-of-an-hour on the clock, the experienced Barry Hayles threaded through Ryan Beswick who was alert to some defensive hesitation but prodded wide as the visitors looked to make their presence felt.

Soon afterwards former Saddlers' youngster, Matty Fryatt had a low strike saved by Bertrand Bossu.

On 17 minutes Moore delivered a ball in from the by-line but Deeney's header lacked sufficient power to trouble the 'keeper.

A foul on Demontagnac inside the penalty area gave Walsall a spot-kick on the half-hour mark. Demontagnac himself stepped up to see his effort smartly pushed out by Henderson.

In the next attack, David McDermott embarked upon a mazy run that ended with him shooting straight at the 'keeper.

At the other end, Bossu saved well from Andy King and then Gabor Bori in quick succession before Demontagnac's effort was hacked off the line ahead of Moore.

Radostin Kishishev put an inviting ball into the danger zone for the visitors that caused problems for Bossu as we scrambled clear before the final minute of the half saw Fryatt twist and turn to hit a shot that cannoned off the post and into the path of Hayles who bundled home from close range only for the goal to be disallowed for handball.

The second period started with Alassane N'Dour seeing a free-kick dip just over. Then Moore set Alex Nicholls racing away only for Henderson to deny him as he closed in on goal.

There was a good save from Bossu to deny the lively Kishishev who tried his luck from distance as Demontagnac did well to block at the far post from Fryatt. The loose ball fell into the path of Hayles whose powerful strike crashed off the crossbar and onto the roof of the net.

Some good battling by Fryatt saw his effort from a tight angle acrobatically cleared off the line by Dobson before Hayles' low drive saw Bossu get down well to push the ball around the post.

It was Leicester who were on top as the half progressed but The Saddlers were defending resolutely.

There was a booking for Kishishev as he hauled down McDermott for a free-kick in a promising position that N'Dour curled wide.

After Smith did well to win a race with Fryatt to make a timely challenge, the visitors took the lead with just two minutes left on the clock as Andy King capitalised upon our failure to clear the ball to fire home a low shot into the far corner of the net.

WALSALL: Bossu, Taundry, Sansara, N'Dour, Smith, Dobson, Nicholls, Moore, Deeney, McDermott, Demontagnac. Subs not used: Harris, Hanna, C. Davies, T. Schwarz, Gilmartin.

WALSALL 0 NOTTINGHAM FOREST 3 - 4/3/2008

THE SADDLERS reserve team slipped to a 3-0 defeat at the hands of Nottingham Forest at The Lamb.

With Forest turning up in their white away kit, Jimmy Mullen's side donned the red of Tamworth for this fixture.

The Pontin's Holidays League Central Division leaders got their noses in front with a long-range effort from Mark Byrne.

Matt Thornhill doubled the advantage just before the interval as he was alert to a loose ball following a Rene Gilmartin save.

Walsall went close as Troy Deeney headed over from Alex Nicholls' cross, whilst Charlton Davies missed an opportunity following some neat link-up play with Deeney.

Nicholls had a couple of efforts that were off target as Richard Taundry also tried his luck from distance before Forest snatched a third five minutes from time through substitute, Richard Tate. "We played well and the result wasn't a fair reflection of the game overall," said Eric McManus. "We had the most of the second half, but failed to take our chances and that cost us dear in the end.

"We tried to play football in difficult conditions but the final scoreline was disappointing."

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Taundry, Sansara (Bacchus), C. Davies (R. Davies), Smith, Dobson, Nicholls, Hanna (Wilkes), Deeney, McDermott, Demontagnac. Subs: T. Schwarz, Skeldon.

OLDHAM ATHLETIC 1 WALSALL 2 - 12/3/2008

THE SADDLERS' second-string battled out a 2-1 win at Oldham on a blustery night in the north-west.

"We had to dig in during the first half as we came up against a strong wind," said Eric McManus. "The boys worked hard for each other and we were in control for long periods.

"Ishmel Demontagnac was a threat all evening and hit the post in the first half before Alex Nicholls gave us a 25th minute lead.

"We allowed our hosts back into it from the penalty spot, but put in a good team performance after the break, with young Tom Schwarz doing particularly well in the heart of defence.

"The winning goal that we deserved finally came with five minutes to go when David McDermott fired home from 30 yards."

WALSALL: Bossu, Woollaston, Sansara, C. Davies, Smith, T. Schwarz, Hanna (Wilkes), Nicholls, Deeney, McDermott, Demontagnac (Bacchus). Subs not used: Curtis, Silver, Gilmartin.

BRADFORD CITY 0 WALSALL 1 - 18/3/2008

A FIRST minute strike from Stefan Moore sealed victory for The Saddlers' second string.

Moore latched on to a long Manny Smith through-ball as the reserves recorded a 1-0 victory over their Bradford City counter-parts at the Coral Windows Stadium.

City had an appeal for a penalty turned down in the 15th minute when David Brown collided with Bertrand Bossu. To his credit, Brown tried to stay on his feet and the ball went out for a corner that came to nothing.

Demontagnac forced Bradford's Donovan Ricketts into an excellent save after 22 minutes when he kept out his 30-yard angled freekick.

As the half-time interval approached, City's Scott Phelan hit a deflected shot that sailed just over Bossu's crossbar.

Bradford created a couple of chances early on in the second period but it was The Saddlers' David McDermott who came closest to scoring. The youngster burst through The Bantams defence only to be denied by a last-gasp tackle from Liam Smith.

City thought they had snatched a late equaliser but Luke Medley's injury-time strike was ruled offside and Jimmy Mullen and Eric McManus' side held on to record a 1-0 win.

"It wasn't the best of performances but we got the win," explained Mullen. "Stefan took his goal well and it was nice to see a few of the young lads in action.

"We gave young Daryl Westlake his Pontin's Holidays League debut and to say that was his first appearance at reserve level, he was outstanding. Troy Deeney filled in at centre-back and did a job for us and Joseph Howes, Sam Adkins and William Grigg also got some minutes on the pitch, which was pleasing.

"All in all it was a decent night's work, although there is room for improvement."

WALSALL: Bertrand Bossu, Daryl Westlake, Netan Sansara, Charlton Davies, Manny Smith ©, Troy Deeney, Harry Harris (Joseph Howes 67), Alex Nicholls, Stefan Moore (William Grigg), David McDermott, Ishmel Demontagnac (Sam Adkins 76), SUBS NOT USED: Mark Lowe, Rene Gilmartin (GK).

WALSALL 3 STOKE CITY 0 - 25/3/2008

THE SADDLERS' second-string chalked up a convincing 3-0 victory over Stoke City at The Lamb.

It took Stefan Moore just seven minutes to open the scoring when he fired in at the far post after a corner caused problems for the visitors' rear-guard.

Moore then notched his second of the evening to double our advantage as he cut inside from the left before tucking the ball home beyond the despairing dive of St. Louis-Hamilton.

The third goal came courtesy of a screaming effort from distance by Charlton Davies as he received a pass from David McDermott.

It could have been four late on when Davies saw another long-range effort cannon off the crossbar.

"It was an entertaining game," said Eric McManus. "We were well in control during the opening period, but Stoke came into it a bit more after the restart.

"In the end we ran out worthy winners."

Ishmel Demontagnac picked up a knock and had to be replaced by Harry Harris.

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Taundry, Bacchus, N'Dour, Smith, T. Schwarz, C. Davies, Demontagnac (Harris), Moore, McDermott, Sansara. Subs not used: R. Davies, Craddock, Westlake, Skeldon.

PORT VALE 4 WALSALL 0 - 31/3/2008

THE SADDLERS' second-string slipped to a disappointing 4-0 defeat at Vale Park.

The home side started well and took the lead just before the quarter-hour mark when a corner was headed beyond Rene Gilmartin.

Worse was to follow less than ten minutes later when Vale amanged to double their advantage.

It shocked Walsall into life as Kevin Betsy and then new-boy, Aaron Brown both went close before Betsy almost seized upon some defensive hesitation as the half came to a close.

With Troy Deeney and youth-teamer, Daryl Westlake on in place of Alex Nicholls and Darren Wrack respectively, the second half started with a penalty for The Saddlers, however Stefan Moore saw his effort saved.

Vale got a spot-kick of their own shortly afterwards and they made no mistake to make it 3-0.

Charlton Davies entered the action in place of Edrissa Sonko as the home side completed the scoring on 84 minutes to complete a miserable night.

"It was very disappointing to lose the game in the manner that we did," said Jimmy Mullen. "The incentive was there for us to finish as runners-up and whilst this is still within reach, we will need to perform to a much higher standard both as a team and as individuals."

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Wrack (Westlake), Sansara, Smith, Brown, N'Dour, Sonko (C. Davies), McDermott, Betsy, Moore, Nicholls (Deeney). Subs not used: Bacchus, Harris.

WEST BROMWICH ALBION 4 WALSALL 3 - 7/4/2008

THE SADDLERS' second-string slipped to a last-minute defeat against West Bromwich Albion in a seven-goal thriller at The Hawthorns.

It was Walsall who took the lead through an early goal from Troy Deeney, but Albion got back on level terms and then edged in front before the half-hour mark.

Their lead didn't last long, though, as Alex Nicholls fired home to make it 2-2 at the break.

The second period began brightly for The Saddlers but we were hit on the break by the home side who regained the lead.

With time running out and both Deeney and Stefan Moore having missed good chances, Ishmel Demontagnac levelled matters.

The closing stages saw Ricky Nicholls lift the ball over the advancing Rene Gilmartin to nick it for Albion as he bagged his second goal of the evening.

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Bradley, Sansara, C. Davies, Brown, T. Schwarz, Nicholls, Deeney, Moore, McDermott, Demontagnac. Subs not used: Harris, Hanna, Westlake, Jones, Cox.

WALSALL 2 SHREWSBURY TOWN 3 - 23/4/2008

A YOUNG Saddlers' reserve team slipped to a 3-2 home defeat at the hands of Shrewsbury Town as we brought the curtain down on our Pontin's Holidays League season.

The early action saw Rene Gilmartin block well in the tenth minute as Asa Hall found space inside the area. Hall then saw the rebound deflected wide as the resulting corner was fired over by David Hunt.

The Shrews took the lead on 14 minutes when former Walsall man, James Constable turned Aaron Brown to fire beyond Gilmartin from close range.

Walsall failed to seriously threaten until the 26th minute when Ishmel Demontagnac looked to burst into the area only to be felled just inside. The referee waved away the protests.

Then Netan Sansara played a neat through-ball in search of Harry Harris who was denied as Jasbir Singh in the visitors goal blocked just outside his area and the loose ball was cleared.

Some good running by Chris Hanna saw him win a corner which was only half-cleared and as David McDermott delivered the ball back into the danger zone, Brown was just off target with a towering header.

With five minutes to go until the break, McDermott whipped in another ball in search of Brown and this time he managed to find the net to level the scores.

As half-time approached, Michael Barnes found Jimmy Ryan whose effort produced an instinctive save from Gilmartin, whilst at the other end McDermott's long-range drive was easy for Singh.

The second period started with Barnes firing wide for the visitors before Demontagnac was guilty of a bad miss at the other end as he latched onto a weak back-header only to round the 'keeper and fire into the side-netting.

The next attack saw Demontagnac let fly from distance but this time his effort was clawed wide by Singh.

Youngster, Hassan Bacchus replaced skipper Wrack before The Saddlers took the lead when Demontagnac's shot somehow squirmed through the hands of the 'keeper and into the net.

It was Demontagnac's last action as he was replaced by James Travis with 15 minutes to go.

A dangerous low ball in from the left landed inches wide of Gilmartin's post before Singh made a fine double save at the other end to deny Harry Harris who took a knock and was soon replaced by Cameron Jones.

A counter-attack by The Shrews ended with Constable holding off the attentions of Tom Schwarz to fire home the equaliser and then with just minutes remaining, Hunt fired home the winner for the visitors.

WALSALL: Gilmartin, R. Davies, Sansara, C. Davies, Brown, T. Schwarz, Wrack (Bacchus), Hanna, Harris (Jones), McDermott, Demontagnac (Travis). Subs not used: Westlake, Cox.

WALSALL 4 PORT VALE 1 - 15/8/2006

TWO GOALS apiece from Scott Dann and James Constable saw The Saddlers come from behind to beat Port Vale 4-1 in our opening Pontin's Holidays League Central Division match of the season.

The visitors took the lead on 14 minutes when a cross from the left by Jason Talbot was met by the head of Danny Glover from close range to beat trailist 'keeper, Manuel Esteves.

After Netan Sansara had seen a shot from distance saved by the visiting 'keeper, David McDermott did well to win the ball on the edge of the area before getting in a powerful strike that beat the 'keeper but cannoned off the crossbar and away to safety.

There was a definite needle in the game with the tackles flying in from both teams.

With ten minutes to go until the interval, Joe Cardle hit a powerful shot that was straight at The Saddlers' 'keeper before some strong play from James Constable saw him hold off the attentions of his marker to get in a low shot that the 'keeper spilled into the path of McDermott, whose shot under pressure wasn't powerful enough to trouble the defender on the line.

The last action of the half saw Constable once more link up with McDermott who was crowded out and unable to turn the ball home before a corner in the final minute of the half was headed well over by Scott Dann who was up from the back to make his presence felt.

It didn't Walsall long to get back onto level terms after the restart when Constable powered through only to see his effort deflected into the path of Carlos Fangueiro who was brought down as he prepared to pull the trigger. The referee awarded the penalty and Constable stepped up to tuck the ball away with ease.

The Saddlers went in front on 57 minutes when a Dann header from a corner came back to him and he made no mistake from close range.

As the half went on, Walsall were getting more and more on top, spearheaded by the lively Constable, and some good running from McDermott saw him thread a neat ball through to Fangueiro who was crowded out, but the ball found its way wide to Constable whose powerful effort took a slight deflection on its way out for a corner.

A fine corner from Graham Deakin on 68 minutes found its way over to the far post where Dann once more found space to guide his header home with much aplomb.

Peter Doran came on in place of the injured Richard Taundry with 20 minutes to go before an excellent ball in the middle of the park by Mark Bradley set Ishmel Demontagnac away down the right and his low cross was perfect for Constable who fired confidently into the back of the net.

Moments later, following another powerful effort at goal, Constable took a heavy knock that left him in obvious pain and he was stretchered from the field to be replaced by Harry Harris. Then McDermott appeared to hobble out of the action as he was replaced by youngster, Nathaniel Howell.

With The Saddlers coasting to a well-earned win, a late chance saw some good running from Demontagnac who set up a shooting chance for Fangueiro but the former Millwall man fired well over.

WALSALL: Esteves, Sansara, Taundry (Doran), Bradley, Dann, Smith, McDermott (Howell), Deakin, Constable (Harris), Demontagnac, Fangueiro. Subs not used: C. Davies, McKeown.

STOKE CITY 0 WALSALL 0 - 23/8/2006

A YOUNG Saddlers' reserve team has played out a goalless draw with a more experienced Stoke City outfit at the Britannia Stadium.

Walsall started brightly and youth teamer, Nathaniel Howell went close with a header early on following an inviting cross from David McDermott.

Carling Cup goalscoring hero, Scott Dann also threatened before the home side had Robert Garrett sent off just before half-time following a reckless challenge on McDermott.

The Potters picked up the pace after the restart and Rene Gilmartin was called upon to make a couple of smart stops before Mark Bradley and Dann were denied by the home 'keeper.

In the end honours finished even and The Saddlers battled well. "We were unlucky not to win the game in the end," said reserve team boss, Mark Kinsella. "The first half was very physical and a rather stop-start affair. The tackles were flying in but, despite the difficult, wet conditions, were tried to play.

"We came out for the second half against ten men and used the ball well, finding the extra man but we just couldn't get onto the scoresheet.

"Our young side can be pleased with the way that they performed and everyone made a contribution."

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Doran, Smith, Dann, Sansara, Demontagnac (Quarless), McDermott, Deakin, Bradley (C. Davies), Harris, Howell. Subs not used: T. Schwarz, R. Davies, McKeown.

WALSALL 1 BIRMINGHAM CITY 2 - 29/8/2006

THE SADDLERS reserves slipped to a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Birmingham City in a game which saw Tony Bedeau and Michael Dobson both come through 90 minutes.

A competitive opening 15 minutes saw both teams showing plenty of running without really testing either 'keeper.

On 22 minutes a ball into the danger zone by Peter Doran found Tony Bedeau who did well to make room for a shot which was blocked in front of goal.

The Saddlers were starting to see more of the ball as the half wore on, but Blues went close just before the half-hour when some trickery out wide by Mathew Birley saw him force a corner which was headed just over by Sone Aluko.

A food break by Oliver Allen saw him get in behind the Walsall defence only for his low shot to be clawed away by Gilmartin as Peter Doran cleared in front of Aluko as he looked to seize upon the loose ball.

With ten minutes to go until the interval, Graham Dekin set up Michael Dobson for a shot that he dragged wide before a break down the left by Blues ended with Aluko firing well over.

Blues were conceding a lot of free-kicks and one on the edge of the area saw Demontagnac go close before Aluko was denied at the other end by Gilmartin as Dobson completed the clearance.

The Saddlers took the lead on 42 minutes when David McDermott found trialist Clyde Wijnhard just inside the area and he capitalised upon a slip by a defender to coolly slot home.

The second period began with a good effort by Neil Kilkenny from distance that produced a fine save from Gilmartin who managed to get his fingertips to the ball.

With 50 minutes on the clock, James Blake was red carded for his second bookable offence before Constable did well to hold off the attentions of his marker before curling a powerful drive inches over.

Birmingham got back on level terms in the 63rd minute when Birley threaded a neat ball through to Peter Till who slid the ball past angle Gilmartin from a tight angle.

Wijnhard looked to break through on 67 minutes only to be denied by the alert Jake Meredith in the visitors' goal as The Saddlers were never really able to get into their stride in the second half.

With Netan Sansara on for Peter Doran, a teasing ball into the box by Bedeau saw Deakin line up a shot that was blocked before Bedeau provided another inviting cross moments later that found Wijnhard who was off target.

With time running out, Till looked offside as he broke away only for Gilmartin to push him wide to allow Dann to clear from in front of goal.

The visitors' pressure finally paid off when they took the lead in the 89th minute as a cross from the left found Krystian Pearce up from the back and in space to head beyond Gilmartin.

There was still time for Walsall to win a penalty in the closing stages as Constable was felled just inside the area and he picked himself up to take the spot-kick but fired well wide as Saddlers slipped to defeat.

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Doran (Sansara), Demontagnac, Dobson, Dann, Smith, McDermott, Deakin, Bedeau, Wijnhard, Constable. Subs not used: C. Davies, Quarless, Howell, McKeown.

SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY 2 WALSALL1 - 5/9/2006

THE SADDLERS' reserves have slipped to a narrow 2-1 defeat at the hands of Sheffield Wednesday.

It was Walsall who started the game in a positive fashion and were rewarded on eight minutes when Tony Bedeau found the net after David McDermott and then Scott Dann were both denied by the home 'keeper.

The Saddlers continued to have the upper hand as the half went on and Bedeau almost added a second before Harry Harris saw a shot pushed away by Chris Adamson in The Owls' goal on 33 minutes.

The home side managed to get back onto level terms right on the stroke of half-time when Mannie Smith was adjudged to have handled inside the penalty area and Kenny Lunt stepped up to send Rene Gilmartin the wrong way.

The second period saw the home side make their added experience tell and early on Lunt set up Marcus Tudgay to head just over before he made no mistake in the 58th minute as he got on the end of a low cross into the danger zone at the far post.

Both sides had chances after that, with Mark Kinsella going the closest as his long range drive struck the post and rebounded to safety with the 'keeper beaten.

Bedeau also went close as The Saddlers narrowly lost out.

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Doran (Taundry), Sansara, C. Davies, Dann, Smith, McDermott, Kinsella, Harris, Bedeau, Quarless (Hanna).

WEST BROMWICH ALBION 1 WALSALL 1 - 20/9/2006

THE SADDLERS' second string have played out a 1-1 draw at West Bromwich Albion in a game which saw Alex Nicholls come through almost 70 minutes of action, whilst Australian defender, Allan Picken got a full 90 minutes under his belt.

There was a late change to Mark Kinsella's side as giant French goalkeeper, Bertrand Bossu was able to start in goal after spending the past few days on trial with the club.

Walsall were sluggish coming out of the blocks, giving possession away too easily as our more experienced players were unable to stamp their authority on the game.

It was no surprise when the home side took the lead just before half-time, however after the restart The Saddlers came out and upped the tempo with David McDermott and Carlos Fangueiro in particular causing problems.

We were back on level terms when McDermott linked up well with the returning Alex Nicholls who crossed invitingly for Tony Bedeau to make no mistake.

It was The Saddlers who were on top for the next 15 minutes or so, creating some good chances that unfortunately we could not convert as Nicholls and then substitute, Harry Harris squandered particularly good openings.

We also rode our luck at the back on occasions as the half wore on but Bossu wasn't seriously troubled as he made a few routine catches and the honours ended even. "We did reasonably well," said reserve team boss, Mark Kinsella, who came off in the closing stages with a slight hamstring strain. "It was a game of two halves where we didn't really get going in the first half but then looked the better side after the break.

"The Hawthorns is a big pitch and it took a lot out of us, but we kept our shape much better in the second half and everyone improved as the game went on.

"It was nice to see Alex Nicholls get 70 minutes of action under his belt as we look to build his match fitness levels up. We haven't got another reserve game for a couple of weeks, so he will go back to working hard on the training ground as he gets nearer to a first-team return.

"We were also able to give Allan Picken a full 90 minutes and one or two other players had a useful work-out."

WALSALL: Bossu, Smith, Demontagnac, Bradley, Dann, Picken, Fangueiro, Kinsella (Taundry), Nicholls (Harris), Bedeau, McDermott. Subs not used: Quarless, Doran, Gilmartin.

WALSALL 4 BARNSLEY 0 - 3/10/2006

THE SADDLERS' second-string chalked up a convincing 4-0 victory over Barnsley at a rain-soaked Bescot Stadium.

With 17 minutes on the clock, Nicholls dragged an effort wide before a neat turn and shot by Ishmel Demontagnac saw the ball fly just over.

A foul on Demontagnac in the 25th minute saw the resulting free-kick whipped dangerously into the danger zone where Mannie Smith was up from the back to make his presence felt as Kyle Letheren in the visitors' goal saved well from close range.

The Saddlers won a penalty three minutes later when Demontagnac was brought down by Scott McGrory and it was Demontagnac himself who stepped up to coolly fire home, sending the 'keeper the wrong way.

Within a minute our advantage was doubled when a sharp break out wide ended with an inviting ball that was headed firmly home by Mark Bradley to give the 'keeper no chance.

The visitors didn't offer much attacking threat, however with five minutes to go until half-time, Stefan Holt fired wide after Nathan Joynes' shot had been blocked bravely by Scott Dann.

Shortly afterwards some trickery by the lively Demontagnac saw his low ball across the face of goal agonisingly evade everyone.

The last action of the half involved Demontagnac once more as he set up Constable only for Letheren to save his effort.

Reserve team boss, Mark Kinsella was replaced at half-time by youth teamer, Charlton Davies as the second period got underway in heavy rain.

On 50 minutes, Nicholls linked up with McDermott who fired home with the aid of a deflection along the way to make it 3-0.

It was Walsall who were asking all of the questions and Nicholls latched onto a through-ball just past the hour-mark but fired wide of the target.

Demontagnac was replaced by Leon Quarless just before Nicholls saw a shot blacked as the rebound fell out to Bradley who in turn picked out Quarless in space to his left. The youngster snatched at his shot as the ball flew well over.

Moments later our fourth goal duly arrived and it went to Nicholls who cut inside before hitting a sweet low strike from outside the area that flew beyond the grasp of the 'keeper for a deserved goal.

The Saddlers ended the game well on top and late on an inviting low ball by Quarless was fired over from a good position by Nicholls.

WALSALL: Bossu, Doran, Taundry, Bradley, Dann, Smith, McDermott, Kinsella (C. Davies), Constable, Nicholls, Demontagnac (Quarless). Subs not used: Harris, Sansara, Gilmartin.

WALSALL 2 NOTTINGHAM FOREST 1 - 10/10/2006

DARREN Wrack made his long-awaited return to action as The Saddlers' reserves chalked up a 2-1 victory over Nottingham Forest with James Constable staking his claim for a first-team return with both goals.

The first sight on goal came after nine minutes when Hamza Bencherif fired over the crossbar from distance.

With 16 minutes on the clock, Mark Kinsella lifted a long free-kick teasingly into the danger zone, but Scott Dann, who was up from the back, failed to get a proper connection and the ball found its way into the arms of the visiting 'keeper.

Some positive running by Alex Nicholls shortly afterwards ended with his effort blocked by the experienced Danny Cullip.

Nicholls combined well with James Constable on 20 minutes and Constable's low cross was just too far ahead of Ishmel Demontagnac as The Saddlers started to see more of the ball in attacking situations.

A couple of minutes later, Richard Taundry's cross was headed narrowly wide by Kinsella, whilst at the other end, The Saddlers' offside trap was working well to frustrate the Forest forward line which included one-time Walsall loanee, Kevin James.

With ten minutes to go until the break, Jon-Paul Pittman drilled a low shot just wide of the target for Forest before Constable went close when Taundry's ball found its way to him and he fired over.

As the half came to a close, Demontagnac picked up a loose ball and embarked upon a direct run at goal before curling a shot just over.

The last action of the half saw Kinsella's deep cross cause problems for Pedersen in the visitors' goal but no-one was on hand to capitalise as the half ended goalless.

The second period commenced with James Beaumont hitting a shot over on 48 minutes but it wasn't long before The Saddlers took the lead when Nicholls broke the offisde trap with his burst forward to set up Constable who made no mistake from close range.

Within two minutes it was 2-0 as a misunderstanding between Cullip and Pedersen was seized upon by Constable who stayed clam to fire home into an unguarded net.

Some good running by Demontagnac saw him find Constable in the next attack and he teed up Mark Bradley for an attempt that sailed over.

A fine ball by Wrack, who was making a steady return to action, set Nicholls away in the 65th minute but his eventual shot was well blocked by the 'keeper.

There was a scare with 20 minutes left on the clock when James McKeown, a late replacement in goal for Rene Gilmartin who got injured in the warm-up, came racing to the edge of his area and failed to clear his lines properly under pressure. In the end he needed an excellent block from Dann to deny Ben Fairclough.

A neat ball by James set Pittman away as Forest increased the pressure in search of a way back into the game, but as he got away from his marker, he saw his shot blocked by McKeown.

Forest finally managed to pull a goal back with a quarter-of-an-hour to go when James Beaumont placed a shot beyond the 'keeper from distance after The Saddlers failed to clear their lines.

Walsall failed to let their heads drop and Nicholls' pace took him away from his marker only to hit a shot straght at Pedersen as he closed in on goal.

Nicholls was replaced by David McDermott before a dangerous late free-kick was scrambled away by The Saddlers as we held on to our lead.

There was still time for a late change as Peter Doran replaced Demontagnac but the final whistle sounded soon afterwards to confirm a Walsall win.

WALSALL: McKeown, Taundry, Sansara, Bradley, Dann, Smith, Wrack, Kinsella, Constable, Nicholls (McDermott), Demontagnac (Doran). Subs not used: C. Davies, Wannell.

SHREWSBURY TOWN 2 WALSALL 1 - 23/10/2006

THE SADDLERS' second string have run out 2-1 winners at Shrewsbury Town in the Pontin's Holidays League in a game which saw Darren Wrack and Alex Nicholls both get 90 minutes under their belts.

With just five minutes on the clock, Wrack did well to find Nicholls who in turn set up James Constable for an effort which beat the 'keeper but rattled the crossbar.

After a combination of Scott Dann and Mannie Smith had done well to block Steve Hogg's shot, Walsall took the lead just before the half-hour mark when Mark Bradley burst through a couple of challenges before hitting a powerful effort from the edge of the area which flew home.

The home side tried to hit back shortly afterwards as Marco Adaggio capitalised upon a slip by Tony Bedeau, who was used in a right-back position, but his curling effort flew just wide of the target.

At the other end, David McDermott's probing ball forward just evaded Constable in front of goal as The Shrews' defence hesitated.

With half-time approaching, Neil Ashton hit a piledriver from distance which was just inches wide after Dann had blocked the first effort.

The equaliser arrived on the stroke of the interval when an inviting cross from the left found the head of Dale Williams who got up well to beat Bossu.

Peter Doran replaced Dann at half-time as Mark Bradley move into the heart of the back-line alongside Mannie Smith, whilst five minutes into the second period Netan Sansara came on for James Constable as Richard Money changed things around.

Bradley did well to head back to Bossu under pressure from Adaggio on the hour before Mark Kinsella hit a low drive that went just wide following some neat build-up play by The Saddlers.

We got our noses back in front when Ishmel Demontagnac was allowed to make progress out wide on the left before cutting inside from the by-line and somehow finding the net from a tight angle.

After a long-range effort from Hogg was held by Bossu, McDermott was replaced by Charlton Davies.

In the closing stages, a foul on Demontagnac presented Walsall with a free-kick in a dangerous position right on the very edge of the area. The first effort was curled narrowly wide by Kinsella but the referee ordered a retake for encroachment by the Shrewsbury wall. This time Wrack took the kick and brought a fine save from Chris Sanna as he pushed the ball out for a corner.

The last action saw Doran drill a low ball powerfully into the danger zone that just evaded Wrack at the far post.

In the end, The Saddlers ran out worthy winners.

WALSALL: Bossu, Bedeau, Demontagnac, Bradley, Dann (Doran), Smith, McDermott (C. Davies), Kinsella, Constable (Sansara), Nicholls, Wrack. Subs not used: Taundry, McKeown.

BURTON ALBION 1 WALSALL 2 (BIRMINGHAM SENIOR CUP THIRD ROUND), 7/11/2006

THE SADDLERS left it late to make progress into the fourth round of the Birmingham Senior Cup as we secured a 2-1 victory at Burton Albion.

The first half was played at a decent tempo with chances at either end, but the deadlock wasn't broken until the 67th minute as Ishmel Demontagnac caused problems with some skilful and direct play that ended with him crossing invitingly to the far post where James Constable was on hand to head home from close range.

We didn't hold onto the lead for long as the home side found themselves back on level terms within five minutes as Tony Bedeau, who was playing at right-back, played a back-pass to Bertrand Bossu and as the French 'keeper looked to clear long upfield, the ball struck Steve Scoffham and the rebound rather fortunately found its way into the back of the net.

The Saddlers failed to let their heads drop and continued to battle away gamely. Physio, Jon Whitney was a no-nonsense figure at left-back and he received a booking for a robust challenge, whilst Mark Bradley also saw yellow. There was also the opportunity for Darren Wrack and Alex Nicholls to get more match action under their belts.

With the game looking as though it was heading for 30 minutes of extra-time, substitute, David McDermott threaded a neat, defence-splitting ball through to Graham Deakin who made a positive run from midfield before coolly slotting home beyond the experienced Martin Taylor.

WALSALL: Bossu, Bedeau, Whitney, Deakin, Smith, Bradley, Wrack (McDermott), Kinsella, Nicholls, Constable, Demontagnac. Subs not used: Taundry, C. Davies, Sansara, McKeown.

HUDDERSFIELD TOWN 3 WALSALL 1 - 15/11/2006

THE SADDLERS' second-string slipped to a disappointing 3-1 defeat at the hands of Huddersfield Town.

The home side came out of the blocks brightly and threatened early on when some good play down the right ended with an inviting cross to the far post that Bertrand Bossu did well to claim.

Within two minutes we came under more pressure as our back-line was carved open, but this time the ball flew across the face of goal and to safety.

Our first real effort on goal saw Mark Kinsella's long-range drive flash just wide before we fell behind as McAliskey's shot rebounded to Jamie Hand who beat Bossu with the aid of a deflection.

On 27 minutes Hand bagged his second as he volleyed home sweetly from 25 yards, but we didn't let our heads drop and managed to pull a goal back just past the half-hour mark when Darren Wrack cleverly linked up with Graham Deakin whose effort found its way past the home 'keeper.

Youngster, Troy Denney replaced Kinsella during the interval but it was Huddersfield who had the first opening of the second period only to find Bossu in good form to make the save.

There was a chance for James Constable shortly afterwards, but David Mirfin was able to get back and put in a timely challenge.

Constable then set up Deakin in the next attack, but the first-year professional, who has recently returned from a loan spell at Tamworth, was denied by Paul Rachubka.

After Bossu had made another good save, the home side went close again as another inviting ball flashed across the face of goal with no-one on hand to get the vital touch.

With the home side well in control, Bossu had to save with his legs from McAliskey before The Terriers' third goal finally arrived on 68 minutes when Hand's left-wing cross was expertly swept home by Akins.

David McDermott went close for Walsall on 81 minutes before Charlton Davies' last-minute header from close range produced a fine, point-blank save from Rachubka.

In between, Bossu made another stop as he tipped an effort wide, but in the end it wasn't to be The Saddlers' day.

WALSALL: Bossu, Bedeau, Demontagnac, Deakin, Smith, T. Schwarz, McDermott, Kinsella (Deeney), Constable (D. Schwarz), Nicholls, Wrack (C. Davies). Sub not used: McKeown.

WALSALL 3 BRADFORD CITY 1 - 28/11/2006

THE SADDLERS' second-string picked up a deserved victory over Bradford City as we ran out 3-1 winners in a game which saw both Anthony Gerrard and Craig Pead back in action, whilst Alex Nicholls pushed his claims for a place in the first-team.

After Mark Bradley put an early chance wide, Ishmel Demontagnac set up Tony Bedeau whose effort was well blocked by Ben Saynor in the visitors' goal.

With 15 minutes on the clock, Alex Nicholls' drive was pushed out by the 'keeper as Walsall enjoyed more of the ball in the opening quarter of the game.

However, it was The Bantams who edged in front shortly afterwards when Nick Smith managed to get clear of the defence before finding the back of the net with a neat finish.

At the other end, Demontagnac lifted the ball over under pressure before we were back on level terms in the 24th minute as Bedeau's positive run into the area saw him set up Nicholls who powerfully swept the ball home.

Boosted by the goal, David McDermott hit a shot on the turn that went well over as we searched for another straight away.

On the stroke of half-time, Ben Muirhead tried his luck from distance for the visitors but he was well off target as the half ended all square.

Some fine control from a long crossfield ball by McDermott saw him twist and turn to make room for a shot which Saynor did well to block from close range.

It wasn't long before The Saddlers took the lead when Nicholls made progress towards goal and his ball in search of Demontagnac rather fortunately found its intended target off a defender, but Demontagnac made no mistake as he slotted the ball home.

With Walsall well in control, Demontagnac then Nicholls both had efforts blocked before some smart play by the lively McDermott ended with him flashing a shot wide of the far post.

Canadian trailist, Geordie Lyall, who had a steady game in the right-back position, was forced off with what appeared to be a groin strain in the 73rd minute as Netan Sansara took his place. Sansara went to the left-back position which allowed Craig Pead to return to his more familar right-back role.

Soon afterwards Anthony Gerrard, who was making his comeback from an ankle injury, was replaced by youngster Andrew Bentley.

It was a full-blooded contest played at a decent tempo, with Walsall the more likely side and rarely troubled at the back during the second period.

A good effort from Bentley was saved by the 'keeper as the clock ticked down.

The third and final change saw Bedeau replaced by Troy Denney before Nicholls' cross to the far post found Demontagnac whose effort went into the side-netting from a tight angle.

Our third goal duly arrived on 84 minutes as Demontaganc set Sansara bursting away out wide on the left and his pull-back from the by-line was perfect for Nicholls who slotted home to give the 'keeper no chance.

With the game won, Denney fired well over in the final minutes as The Saddlers claimed a deserved three points.

WALSALL: Bossu, Lyall (Sansara), Pead, Bradley, Smith, Gerrard (Bentley), McDermott, Deakin, Nicholls, Bedeau (Denney), Demontagnac. Subs not used: C. Davies, McKeown.

WALSALL 1 SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY 1 - 6/12/2006

A LAST-gasp equaliser denied ten-man Walsall victory against Sheffield Wednesday in the Pontin's Holidays League.

An even first half saw both teams go close to opening the scoring in what was an opening period of few genuine opportunities.

Right on the stroke of half-time, young midfielder, Graham Deakin received his marching orders following a number of robust challenges.

It meant that we had to reorganise during the break but came out and started the second period brightly.

Our dominance was rewarded on 55 minutes when some good work in the middle of the park by Alex Nicholls saw him set-up substitute, Troy Denney who planted a header home.

Despite being a man down, we continued to look the better side as the game wore on, reducing the visitors to only a handful of chances.

Just as it looked as though we were going to claim maximum points, The Owls snatched a late leveller when a deep corner was met with a firm header by Graham Coughlan at the far post to give Bertrand Bossu no chance.

WALSALL: Bossu, Thompson, Sansara, Bradley, Smith, Gerrard, Lyall, Deakin, Nicholls, McDermott (Ryan), Demontagnac (Denney). Subs not used: C. Davies, Bentley, McKeown.

BARNSLEY 2 WALSALL 0 - 6/2/2007

A YOUTHFUL Saddlers' reserve team slipped to a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Barnsley in the Pontin's Holidays League.

The home side came out of the blocks quickest with Paul Hayes going close on a couple of occasions early on.

After Bertrand Bossu had done well to deny Coulson, Ishmel Demontagnac had our first chance when he latched onto a through-ball before firing over.

Barnsley got their noses in front on 40 minutes when Bossu failed to claim a Paul Heckingbottom free-kick that was delivered high into the penalty area and Coulson was on hand to find the net with a simple tap-in.

It was almost 2-0 shortly afterwards when Bossu managed to keep out Hayes' effort only for Reid to put the rebound over.

The Saddlers started the second period in purposeful fashion but The Tykes doubled their advantage with their first real attack as Coulson got the better of Peter Doran before slotting home.

Our young side continued to battle well on what was a compact pitch and trailist, Dale Tonge almost notched a goal in the closing stages when he got on the end of a Cameron Jones corner but put his effort over. "It was disappointing to lose the game as I felt that our young side gave a good account of themselves," said second-string boss, Eric McManus. "Barnsley's two goals came as a result of defensive midunderstandings and their second goal in particular came in their first attack of the second half after we had found ourselves well on top after the restart.

"The game was switched from the main Oakwell pitch because of frost, and the fact that we played on a small and tight pitch at their training ground made it a fast and furious encounter.

"It was good to see Allan Picken come through 90 minutes, whilst Dale Tonge mixed well with the lads and can be pleased with his overall performance, where his higher-level experience showed through on occasions."

WALSALL: Bertrand Bossu, Geordie Lyall, Netan Sansara, Dale Tonge, Peter Doran, Allan Picken, Chris Hanna (Cameron Jones), Charlton Davies, Troy Denney (Leon Quarless), Alex Nicholls (Harry Harris), Ishmel Demontagnac. Sub not used: Andrew Bentley.

WALSALL 2 LEEDS UNITED 2 - 13/2/2007

THE SADDLERS' second-string have played out a 2-2 draw with Leeds United at The Grove.

We started the game in a positive fashion and after missing a number of early chances, deservedly took the lead when a corner was powerfully headed home by Troy Denney just before the half-hour mark.

On a rain-soaked surface, we continued to work hard as a team and attempt to play some decent football. We managed to double our advantage ten minutes into the second period when Ishmel Demontagnac hit a powerful drive that was parried by Graham Stack into the path of Tony Bedeau who made no mistake.

Our joy was short-lived as Leeds managed to pull a goal back straight away and this gave them a much-needed confidence boost.

We took off our three most experienced players, namely Darren Wrack, Bedeau and Mark Wright as youth-teamers, Charlton Davies, Leon Quarless and Peter Doran took their place respectively.

Nevertheless, chances still came our way but we were unable to convert and our visitors managed to haul themselves back on level terms with a quarter-of-an-hour to go. "I thought that we were excellent," said reserve boss, Eric McManus. "Despite the conditions I was pleased with the performance that the lads put in.

"We created plenty of chances but were unable to kill the game off and in the end we were punished as individual errors cost us two goals.

"We finished the game with a very young team, but the lads showed plenty of spirit and battling qualities which will stand them in good stead. This will be an important part of their development and all in all it was a very useful work-out for us."

WALSALL: Bossu, Lyall, Sansara, Bradley, Smith, Wright (Doran), Wrack (C. Davies), Bedeau (Quarless), Denney, Nicholls, Demontagnac. Subs not used: Harris, Gilmartin.

WALSALL 1 WEST BROMWICH ALBION 2 - 21/2/2007

THE SADDLERS' second-string have slipped to a 2-1 defeat at the hands of local rivals, West Bromwich Albion in the Pontin's Holidays League.

We started the game in a positive fashion, enjoying most of the possession without really troubling the Albion back-line too much.

It was the visitors who took the lead on 25 minutes when an inviting cross found its way to the far post where Michael Nardiello was on hand to squeeze his effort past Bertrand Bossu.

Despite falling behind, we continued to look lively and our reward eventually came eight minutes into the second period when Geordie Lyall, who moved into a midfield berth, notched his first goal for the club with a looping header as Albion failed to properly clear their lines.

Craig Shakespeare's Baggies hit back and after Bossu had produced a fine stop, they grabbed what proved to be the winner on 72 minutes through youngster, Jack Compton.

The Saddlers pushed hard for an equaliser in the closing stages but Albion held firm to run out 2-1 winners on a damp night at The Lamb.

WALSALL: Bossu, Lyall, Taylor, Bradley, Smith, T. Schwarz, Wrack, C. Davies, Nicholls, Quarless, Demontagnac. Subs not used: Hanna, Harris, Doran, R. Davies, Gilmartin.

BIRMINGHAM CITY 0 WALSALL 2 - 26/2/2007

THE SADDLERS' second-string chalked up an impressive 2-0 victory at Birmingham City in the Pontin's Holidays League as Par Cedeqvist notched his first goal for the club.

"It was a very good all-round display," said reserve team manager, Eric McManus. "We were in control from start to finish and the only disappointing aspect of the evening was that Par Cederqvist had to go off with 20 minutes remaining after taking a bang on the knee.

"We created a lot of chances, particularly in the second half, and with a bit more composure in front of goal could have won by a bigger margin.

"The first goal came just past the half-hour when Cederqvist put in an inviting cross which saw Troy Denney challenge with the 'keeper only for the ball to evade them both and find its way to Darren Wrack, who had made an intelligent run from midfield, at the far post and he made no mistake.

"We went on to double our advantage six minutes into the second period when the busy Denney played in Cederqvist for a one-on-one with the 'keeper and he coolly finished.

"Obviously it was a blow to lose Cederqvist late on, but the fact that the likes of Wrack, Kris Taylor, Geordie Lyall, Mark Wright and Ishmel Demontagnac all got 90 minutes under their belts will do them good.

"Anthony Barness came in today and looked steady; the manager was speaking with him after the game to decide what will happen next.

"All in all it was a good nights work and a pleasing result."

WALSALL: Bossu, Barness, Taylor, Bradley, Smith, Lyall, Wrack, Cederqvist (C. Davies), Denney, Wright, Demontagnac. Subs: T. Schwarz, Quarless, Doran, Hanna.

NOTTINGHAM FOREST 0 WALSALL 1 - 7/3/2007

A SOLITARY Mark Bradley goal gave The Saddlers' second-string a 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest in the Pontin's Holidays League this afternoon.

The likes of Geordie Lyall, Kris Taylor, Mark Wright, Par Cederqvist and Ishmel Demontagnac all featured in an entertaining contest at The City Ground.

The first half saw chances at a premium as both sides failed to carve out any real chances of note.

On the stoke of half-time, The Saddlers did have the ball in the net but the lineman flagged for offside.

Eric McManus' side piled on the pressure in the second period and, after three consecutive corners, took the lead.

Peter Doran, who had replaced Par Cederqvist just moments earlier, delivered a superb cross for Mark Bradley, who tucked the ball away with a neat diving header. "It was a very impressive and professional all-round display," enthused boss, Eric McManus. "We controlled the game from start to finish and ran out worthy winners.

"Our hosts put out a strong side and it means that our last two reserve team games have seen us beat both Forest and Birmingham City, which is very encouraging indeed.

"Mark Bradley was made captain and he was superb, pulling all the strings in the middle of the park. He capped off a fine performance with an excellent headed goal."

WALSALL: Bertrand Bossu; Geordie Lyall, Leon Quarless (Chris Hanna), Mannie Smith, Kris Taylor; Mark Wright (Harry Harris), Mark Bradley, Charlton Davies, Ishmel Demontagnac; Par Cederqvist (Peter Doran) , Troy Denney . SUBS NOT USED: Rene Gilmartin (GK).

PORT VALE 0 WALSALL 2 - 12/3/2007

THE SADDLERS' reserves have won their third game in a row with a deserved 2-0 victory at Port Vale in the Pontin's Holidays League.

"The opening 20 minutes or so was a little scrappy, but once we got into our stride and settled down, the result was never in any real danger," said second-string boss, Eric McManus. "In the end we could have won by more goals but the pleasing thing is the spirit and pattern of play that exists within the reserve team now. Everyone works hard for each other and they are enjoying their football."

Walsall took the lead with just over ten minutes to go until the interval when Mark Wright's inviting cross was met by the hard-working Mark Bradley who planted the ball firmly past the 'keeper.

We managed to double our advantage just seven minutes later when youth-teamer, Leon Quarless did well to flick the ball over the 'keeper only to see his effort come back off the crossbar. Troy Deeney was the first to react as he tucked the rebound home.

Further chances followed in the second period as The Saddlers dictated most of the play, but we were unable to add to the scoring.

Youth team trio, Chris Hanna, Peter Doran and Harry Harris all entered the action with around 20 minutes to go as in goal Rene Gilmartin returned from injury to come through the 90 minutes unscathed. "It was good to see Rene back in goal," added McManus, who also acts as Goalkeeping Coach. "He has not had much luck with injury this season, but came through the game well.

"I thought that his kicking was excellent and he made a good save during the second half. Keeping a clean sheet will do his confidence the world of good.

"Par Cedeqvist also got a good 90 minutes under his belt, so the lads are certainly giving the manager something to think about."

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Lyall, Quarless (Doran), Bradley, Smith, Taylor, Wright (Hanna), Cederqvist, Deeney (Harris), C. Davies, Demontagnac. Sub not used: Skeldon.

REDDITCH UNITED 1 WALSALL 3 (BIRMINGHAM SENIOR CUP SEMI-FINAL) - 20/3/2007

THE SADDLERS marched into the Final of the Birmingham Senior Cup following a convincing victory at Redditch United by three goals to one.

"On a difficult pitch, I thought that our boys did well and were always in control," said reserve team boss, Eric McManus. "The conditions meant that we had to play what I would call 'basic football' most of the time, but everyone worked hard and can be pleased with their efforts.

"Our first goal came when a corner was only half-cleared and the delivery back into the box found the head of Mannie Smith, who had stayed up from the back, and his ball across the face of goal was turned home by Par Cederqvist from close range.

"It was a deserved goal and young Troy Deeney made it two when he was alert to a pull-back from Mark Bradley to find the back of the net.

"With Ishmel Demontagnac looking lively and proving to be a constant threat out wide, Cederqvist got his second to confirm our place in the Final when he latched onto another good ball from Bradley.

"Seeing both strikers get their names on the scoresheet was a bonus and exactly what the Gaffer was looking for from them. I also thought that youth-teamer, Chris Hanna did well when he came on for the last 20 minutes or so.

"All in all it was a good nights work and we will now look forward to taking on Coventry City in the Final."

WALSALL: Bossu, Lyall, Smith, Taylor, Sansara, Wright, Wrack (C. Davies), Bradley, Demontagnac, Deeney, Cederqvist (Hanna).

WALSALL 4 STOKE CITY 1 - 27/3/2007

AN EXTREMELY youthful Saddlers' reserve team has chalked up a convincing 4-1 victory over Stoke City as we played some superb football.

It was Walsall who made the brighter opening on a pleasant spring afternoon here at Bescot Stadium. With nine minutes on the clock, Chris Hanna fired just over after the visitors' defence had only half-cleared under pressure from Harry Harris.

A couple of minutes later, Stephen Ryan in the Stoke goal failed to hold onto a corner and Mannie Smith tried his luck with an over-head kick that wasn't too far off target.

Harris was crowded out as he powered through in the next attack and from the resulting corner, Ryan had to make a smart double save to deny Hanna as The Saddlers started to turn the screw.

There was a good tempo to the game with both sides displaying plenty of energy.

An excellent save from Ryan denied Harris as Smith's long free-kick picked out Troy Deeney who spotted Harris in space on the edge of the area and he hit a sweet strike that the 'keeper was equal to.

Harris was denied yet again just before the half-hour when Leon Quarless' defence-splitting pass set him away. His first effort was blocked as he dragged the follow-up right across the face of goal with no-one on hand to get the crucial touch.

The next raid at goal saw Hanna skilfully evade a couple of challenges before firing into the side-netting.

The opening goal finally arrived on 32 minutes when a corner was played short to Ishmel Demontagnac who delivered an inviting ball to the far post that picked out Deeney in space and he made no mistake from close range.

A cross-cum-shot from the lively Quarless struck the crossbar before the half ended with Geordie Lyall dragging a low shot wide after Charlton Davies had done well to hold the ball up in the build-up.

The second period began with a loose ball struck powerfully towards goal by Bradley, however the effort landed just wide.

The Saddlers continued where they left off in the first half, playing some good football and it came as no surprise when Deeney doubled our advantage as he confidently strode through before unleashing an unstoppable shot.

A corner on the hour-mark found its way to Bradley whose shot was well kept out by the busy visiting 'keeper but it was soon 3-0 as Deeney chased a through-ball from Quarless and managed to pull it back from the by-line where James Curley deflected it past his own 'keeper.

Geordie Lyall was replaced by Richard Taundry with 20 minutes to go and the next action saw a foul on Bradley present Walsall with a free-kick in a dangerous position which Demontagnac put over the crossbar.

With Richard Davies on in place of the lively Hanna, Stoke managed to pull a goal back as Marc Grocutt found a way through the middle before slotting powerfully through James McKeown.

It was a rare attack for the visitors, but normal service was soon resumed when Richard Davies set up Bradley who majestically swept the ball home from outside the area to make it 4-1.

A mis-kick from Deeney fell to Bradley right in front of goal but the skipper fired well over. Then Harris struck the crossbar as he tried his luck from distance.

The Saddlers were finishing strongly with plenty of confidence throughout the young team. Peter Doran's sweeping ball into the danger zone on 87 minutes found Deeney who hooked over.

Another excellent move in the closing stages saw The Saddlers put together some sharp passing before Richard Davies put a cross in from the right that fell nicely for Harris who snatched at his effort.

The last kick of the game could have seen Deeney complete his hat-trick, but Sean Robinson was on hand to clear off the line with the 'keeper well beaten.

WALSALL: McKeown, Doran, Quarless, Bradley, Smith, Lyall (Taundry), Hanna (R. Davies), Harris, Deeney, C. Davies, Demontagnac. Subs not used: T. Schwarz, D. Schwarz, Skeldon.

BRADFORD CITY 0 WALSALL 4 - 3/4/2007

THE SADDLERS' second-string have run out convincing 4-0 winners at Bradford City in the Pontin's Holidays League to make it five wins in a row.

We were forced into an early change when Par Cederqvest picked up a back injury and had to be replaced by David McDermott.

It didn't take long for us to get our noses in front with a well worked goal as Mark Wright put in an inviting cross which picked out Tony Bedeau who found the net.

We looked the more likely side as the half went on and deservedly doubled our advantage when the lively Bedeau forced a corner which was curled into the danger zone where McDermott was on hand to convert.

With half-time approaching, Troy Deeney made it 3-0 to put us in a commanding position going into the break.

There was a rather scrappy start to the second period with neither side being able to get hold of the ball. However, we soon got back into our stride with substitute, Chris Hanna - who replaced the injured Geordie Lyall - going close from a McDermott cross.

Rene Gilmartin was rarely troubled in the Walsall goal, making several routine saves, including one from a long-range Luke Sherry attempt with around 15 minutes left on the clock.

The scoring was completed on 81 minutes when Deeney did well to find space before heading home for his second of the evening. "We dominated the game from start to finish," beamed reserve team boss, Eric McManus soon after the final whistle. "The senior players really came to the fore and did well, whilst the youngsters continued in their impressive vein of form.

"The only disappointing aspect of the night was losing Par Cederqvist to a back injury early on and then Geordie Lyall picked up an ankle injury that left him in a lot of pain.

"It was good to see Allan Picken back in action and he did well. We took him off during the second half as a precaution but he came through the game without any problems from his knee, so that is encouraging.

"All in all it was a good nights work and our fifth win in a row."

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Lyall (Hanna), Taylor, Bradley, Smith, Picken (C. Davies), Wright, Cederqvist (McDermott), Deeney, Bedeau, Demontagnac. Subs not used: Doran, McKeown.

WALSALL 1 HUDDERSFIELD TOWN 2 - 10/4/2007

THE SADDLERS' reserve team lost for the first time since February as Huddersfield Town chalked up a 2-1 win at Bescot Stadium.

It took the visitors just five minutes to take the lead when John McAliskey curled the ball home from outside the area, giving Rene Gilmartin in the Walsall goal no chance.

We were back on level terms within two minutes when a pacy and direct run by David McDermott saw him cut inside the area before firing low across the 'keeper and into the bottom corner of the net.

It was an open and energetic start to the proceedings and just past the quarter-hour, a sweeping move ended with Troy Deeney, who was playing in midfield, finding the busy McDermott in a similar position to which he scored ten minutes earlier, but this time Simon Eastwood in The Terriers' goal was able to fingertip his effort round the post.

After a half-chance was put wide by Hector Sam, Ishmel Demontagnac was booked for a trip on Danny Broadbent as he looked to break out of the midfield.

Chances were few and far between at either end and on 31 minutes skipper, Mark Bradley took a knock to the ankle which required lengthy treatment but he was able to continue in the heart of defence alongside Allan Picken.

Demontagnac did well to get in front of Lucas Akins and intercept an inviting low ball from the left with ten minutes to go until the break.

At the other end, Kevin Cooper delivered a teasing corner kick that had to be scrambled away in front of goal at the second attempt. Cooper then hit a free-kick straight at the 'keeper on the stroke of half-time as the teams went in level.

Richard Taundry took the place of Bradley for the start of the second period as Deeney went into the heart of the back-line.

A towering header from a corner by Huddersfield skipper, John McCombe brought the best out of Gilmartin as he made a flying save.

A skilful run at The Terriers' defence by Sam ended with him teeing up Cooper whose powerful drive was just inches wide.

Then McDermott was played in by Sam on 65 minutes only for his eventual shot to be well blocked by the 'keeper as the visitors cleared the loose ball.

Huddersfield regained the lead with 20 minutes to go when McCombe used his height to good effect to flick on a corner to the far post where Broadbent found some space to guide the ball home from close range.

A late challenge by Demontagnac on Akins sparked a melee which ended with The Saddlers' left-back sent off for a second bookable offence as Akins also saw yellow for his part in the fracas that followed.

The Saddlers tried to get back into the game and Tony Bedeau set up Sam only for him to blaze over as he closed in on goal. At the other end, Gilmartin touched over Mitch Bailey's shot from a tight angle.

Some hesitation in the visitors' defence presented Charlton Davies with a shooting opportunity and he drilled his attempt just wide of the target.

As Walsall threw men forward in search of an equaliser, Cooper's cross from the left was cleared by some desperate defending as the men from Yorkshire held on to win in a game which saw Picken, Sam and Cooper all come through 90 minutes.

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Doran, Demontagnac, Bradley (Taundry), C. Davies, Picken, McDermott, Bedeau, Deeney, Sam, Cooper. Subs not used: Hanna, Quarless, Harris, McKeown.

WALSALL 2 SHREWSBURY TOWN 0 - 18/4/2007

TWO GOALS in each half gave The Saddlers' reserves a 2-0 victory over Shrewsbury Town in our final Pontin's Holidays League home game.

After Ishmel Demontagnac and Darren Wrack had put efforts well over, Danny Byrne was just off target for the visitors as he tried to lift the ball over Bertrand Bossu.

The Saddlers went in front on the quarter-hour mark when Par Cederqvist was played through and as he pulled the trigger for a low shot which hit the post, Sheku Kamara brought him crashing to the ground and the referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot.

Demontagnac stepped up and confidently fired home to make it 1-0.

A neat turn and curling shot by Cederqvist was gathered by The Shrews' 'keeper on 26 minutes, before a good burst by Tony Bedeau, who was playing at right-back, saw him ride a couple of challenges to force a corner which was cleared.

There was a let-off for Eric McManus' men with ten minutes to go until the break when Wrack was dispossessed by Ross Draper who hit a speculative effort that sailed over the head of Bossu and struck the crossbar before rebounding to safety.

A foul on Wrack gave The Saddlers a free-kick in a promising position which Cederqvist blasted goalwards only for the ball to take a wicked deflection that took it just the wrong side of the post with the 'keeper helpless.

Moments later Peter Doran came up from the back to get in a towering header following a corner which Jasbir Singh in the Shrewsbury goal was equal to.

The second period started with Mannie Smith's high ball headed into the path of Cederqvist by strike partner, Deeney but he failed to connect properly.

There was a snap-shot by Charlton Davies that was easy for the 'keeper before Richard Taundry came on to replace David McDermott.

The game was something of a stop-start affair as the second half progressed. Bossu had to be at his acrobatic best to deny Byrne's powerful drive.

With Harry Harris on in place of Demontagnac, Deeney linked up well with Sansara whose shot was wayward. Five minutes later, Taundry's throw-in saw the ball headed into the path of Davies by Sansara only for his powerful shot to cannon off the unfortunate Sansara on its way to goal.

We finally managed to double our advantage with five minutes to go when Deeney broke away out on the right before hitting a low shot into the far corner of the net.

A right-wing cross by Harris was headed over at the far post by Sansara before the final action saw Cederqvist's low ball put wide by Deeney.

WALSALL: Bossu, Bedeau, Sansara, McDermott (Taundry), Smith, Doran, Wrack, Cederqvist, Deeney,C. Davies, Demontagnac (Harris). Subs not used: Quarless, T. Schwarz, Gilmartin.

LEEDS UNITED 1 WALSALL 2 - 25/4/2007

THE SADDLERS' second-string have ended their Pontin's Holidays League campaign with an excellent 2-1 victory over Leeds United at Elland Road.

"It was a competitive game," said reserve boss, Eric McManus shortly after the final whistle. "Our young side acquitted themselves superbly well and we were able to end the season on a real high.

"We took the lead on 33 minutes when Par Cederqvist got in a towering header from an inviting corner.

"Leeds equalised five minutes before half-time, but we came out strongly in the second period and hit the post twice before Mark Wright grabbed the winner following a fine solo run with 84 minutes on the clock.

"It was a deserved win and a good way to go into our Birmingham Senior Cup Final against Coventry City next week.

"The lads are playing with plenty of confidence at the moment and it all bodes well for the future."

WALSALL: Bossu, Lyall, Sansara, C. Davies, Smith, Doran, Wright, Cederqvist, Deeney, Bedeau, McDermott. Subs not used: Quarless, Harris, T. Schwarz, Ryan, Gilmartin.

WALSALL 2 COVENTRY CITY 3 (AET) (BIRMINGHAM SENIOR CUP FINAL) - 1/5/2007

THE SADDLERS slipped to a 3-2 extra-time defeat at the hands of Coventry City in the Birmingham Senior Cup Final at Bescot Stadium.

The first sight of goal fell to The Saddlers as David McDermott put the ball over the crossbar. At the other end, Chris Birchall got in a good cross for Matthew West whose header was cleared by Richard Taundry.

A McDermott shot from the angle on 13 minutes saw Luke Steele in the visitors' goal get down well to save.

Just after the quarter-hour mark a high cross to the far post was headed just wide by Lee Hildreth who was up from the back.

After a low drive from Peter Doran was pushed out by Steele, Coventry took the lead on 29 minutes when Birchall used his experience to cut through the heart of The Saddlers' back-line before guiding the ball beyond the reach of Rene Gilmartin.

The visitors managed to double their advantage eight minutes later when a free-kick in a dangerous position was curled goalwards and Gilmartin spilled the ball into the path of Andrew Whing who made no mistake from close range as he bundled the ball over the line.

It was a real blow for the young Saddlers, however after Che Bunce had gone close, we managed to reduce the arrears on 44 minutes when Troy Denney found the net with a neat finish from a low cross from the right.

The scores were level in injury time at the end of the half as Deeney made his presence felt to help the ball over the line at the near post as the 'keeper floundered.

Walsall ended the half with their tails up as Steele was called into action once more to deny Deeney on the edge of the area.

An early chance for the visitors in the second period saw the ball come back off the post before being hooked clear by Doran who was alert to the danger.

After both Geordie Lyall and Alex Nicholls had efforts saved by Steele, Whing went close at the other end.

With 72 minutes on the clock, Leon Quarless' inviting cross was headed away from in front of goal by Bunce.

Five minutes later, Deeney was set up by McDermott and he broke the offside trap before dragging his shot wide from a good position.

With extra-time looming, Charlton Davies put in a free-kick that just evaded the head of Doran as the game finished 2-2 after normal time.

Neither side created much in the opening exchanges apart from a couple of half-chances.

The visitors got their noses in front from the penalty spot following a foul by Taundry as Birchall stepped up to confidently fire past Gilmartin.

There were a couple of substitutions as Chris Hanna and Harry Harris replaced Quarless and McDermott respectively.

Right at the end of extra-time some brave defending by The Sky Blues saw them weather The Saddlers' storm as firstly Whing cleared off the line from Lyall as the loose ball was scrambled to safety right in front of goal.

In the end, Eric McManus' young side were left to reflect on what might have been after a brave and committed display.

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Taundry, Sansara, Doran, Smith, Lyall, McDermott (Harris), Nicholls, Deeney, C. Davies, Quarless (Hanna). Subs not used: Bentley, T. Schwarz, McKeown.

SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY 2 WALSALL 0 - 16/8/2005

THE SADDLERS' second string have slipped to a 2-0 defeat in our opening Pontin's Holidays League game of the season at Sheffield Wednesday.

After making a positive start to the proceedings, The Saddlers were hit in the tenth minute when the home side took the lead. Within four minutes they had doubled their advantage to give us a real mountain to climb at The Owls capitalised upon some defensive hesitancy.

The veteran Steve Claridge was a constant threat for Wednesday, whilst at the other end former West Bromwich Albion 'keeper, Chris Adamson did well to block from Ishmel Demontagnac before pushing a couple of Dario Larrosa headers around the post.

The home side had a couple of further opportunities to extend their lead in the second period, but clear-cut chances were at a premium.

Youth team substitute, Eric Bowen had probably our best chance of the half near the end but he failed to take the opportunity.

WALSALL: Coleman, Gerrard, Harkness, Roper, Dann, Kinsella, Toughy (Leaver), Broad, Larrosa (Bowen), McDermott (Deakin), Demontagnac. Sub not used: Tilt.

WALSALL 2 STOKE CITY 3 - 24/8/2005

THE SADDLERS' second string have gone down by three goals to two against Stoke in the Pontin's Holidays League Division One Central.

The Saddlers came out of the blocks strongly and within two minutes, Dario Larrosa had hit a powerful shot that was pushed out by the visitors' 'keeper.

The Argentinean then had another opening shortly afterwards as the ball fizzed about inside the area but he was off target this time.

Joe Broad was the next one to try his luck and sting the 'keepers hands as The Saddlers searched for an opening goal.

After a couple of minor scares at the other end, Eric Bowen got on the end of a cross from the right to fire in a powerful shot on 20 minutes that the 'keeper pushed out. The loose ball eventually fell to Mark Bradley who saw his effort fly narrowly wide.

Just before the half-hour mark some hesitation between skipper Scott Dann and goalkeeper, Dean Coleman ended with the 'keeper bringing down the on-rushing Stoke forward. The referee had no hesitation in pointing to the penalty spot and Martin Paterson stepped up to fire home and make it 1-0.

The Saddlers pressed for an equaliser and with ten minutes to go until the interval it finally came as some good build-up play ended with Jay Sztybel crossing low into the path of Larrosa who turned sharply and found the back of the net.

Dann saw yellow for a clumsy late challenge on former Saddler, Leroy Williams, who is currently on trial at the Potteries outfit, before the last chance of the half saw a long ball set Larrosa racing away but he was denied by a brave block from the 'keeper as he prepared to pull the trigger.

The second period began with the visiting 'keeper pushing a teasing Sztybel cross into the danger zone, but as Larrosa and Demontagnac applied the pressure he redeemed himself by gathering the ball.

Stoke got their noses back in front on the hour when some powerful running by Williams saw him beat Anthony Gerrard and get to the by-line before pulling the ball across for Paterson who made no mistake from close range for his second goal of the evening.

Immediately after the goal Sztybel hit a shot from distance that fell just wide, whilst at the other end a pacy run and shot by Norbert Zsivozcky was hit straight at Coleman.

On 64 minutes a fine cross from Demontagnac should have been converted by Larrosa and from the resulting corner, Gerrard was denied by the 'keeper as the visitors scrambled the ball clear.

Another foul by Coleman on Paterson led to the second penalty of the night which the Stoke number ten duly took himself to complete his hat-trick and make it 3-1.

There was a flurry of changes by The Saddlers as firstly youth teamer, Chris Hanna replaced Joe Broad before Kinsella and Bowen were replaced by Michael Toughy and Shaun Leaver respectively.

With time running out The Saddlers were caught out through the middle by Williams but his shot was saved by Coleman and then gathered at the second attempt.

We managed to grab a late consolation goal when Larrosa picked out Sztybel in space on the right side of the area and he fired home with a low strike but it was too little too late.

WALSALL: Coleman, Bradley, Bowen (Leaver), Gerrard, Roper, Dann, Kinsella (Toughy), Broad (Hanna), Larrosa, Demontagnac, Sztybel. Sub not used: Tilt.

OLDHAM ATHLETIC 1 WALSALL 1 - 7/9/2005

THE SADDLERS' second string picked up their first point of the season courtesy of a 1-1 draw at Oldham Athletic.

We started the game in a sluggish fashion and were punished on 12 minutes when a corner wasn't properly cleared and the home side fired home.

We settled down in the wake of the goal and started playing the sort of football that we know we are capable of. A five-man move on 21 minutes ended with trialist, Michael Husbands finding space but his effort flew wide.

Daryl Taylor, who was playing his first game since suffering a bad knee injury towards the end of last season, was looking sharp and giving the home side cause for concern as he delivered a number of teasing crosses into the penalty area.

However, he was forced off early in the second period as he suffered a recurrence of his knee problem. Ian Roper also had to leave the field with a hamstring injury as The Saddlers were forced to reshuffle the pack.

On the hour-mark, Rene Gilmartin saved well to keep us in it as he got down low to his left, but it was Walsall who were looking the more likely side as the game went on and we eventually got the goal that we had threatened with around five minutes to go as Mark Wright fired home.

We went on to have a couple of further chances right at the end as firstly Husbands put a shot wide after another good move before the home 'keeper denied Wright with a fine save in injury time.

"All in all it was a good team performance," said reserve team boss, Mark Kinsella. "We started slowly but showed a good attitude to get ourselves back in the game and in the end we deserved to have won."

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Leaver, Roper (Bradley), Dann, Demontagnac, Wright, Smith, D. Taylor (Nicholls), Larrosa (Sztybel), Husbands, Deakin. Subs not used: Kinsella, Tilt.

WALSALL 6 BARNSLEY 2 - 19/9/2005

THE SADDLERS' second string stormed to their first win of the season as a hat-trick from Michael Husbands helped us to a 6-2 triumph over ten-man Barnsley in a game which saw Steve Staunton come through 74 minutes of action as he recovers from a calf problem and Ishmel Demontagnac impress with some dynamic and direct wing-play.

A neat touch by Dario Larrosa saw him set himself up for an early shooting opportunity that was blocked by the visitors' defence with three minutes on the clock.

There was a controversial moment just minutes later when Michael Husbands was beaten to the ball on the edge of the penalty area by David Scarsella in the Barnsley goal. The loose ball fell into the path of strike partner Larrosa who attempted to lob the ball over the stranded 'keeper who was adjudged to have handled outside his area.

He was duly given a red card but the free-kick ended disappointingly for The Saddlers.

A speculative effort from out wide on the left by Nathan Jarman found its way over Saddlers' 'keeper Luke Tilt and into the net on the quarter-hour mark to give the visitors the lead.

Husbands almost produced an immediate response as he put the ball past the 'keeper, who had come a long way off his line, only for Robert Atkinson to clear off the line.

The Saddlers won a free-kick in a dangerous position just inside the penalty area on 25 minutes after the substitute 'keeper was penalised for holding onto the ball for too long. The set-piece saw Mark Kinsella tee up Shaun Leaver just on the edge of the area for a shot but his effort was easily cleared by the Barnsley back-line.

The equaliser came with ten minutes to go until the break when some good work by Mark Bradley on the right saw him deliver a low ball into the path of Husbands who powerfully guided the ball home, giving James Waggett in the Barnsley goal no chance.

It was Walsall who were ending the half on top and we edged in front on 44 minutes as Larrosa did superly well to set the lively Ishmel Demontagnac racing away down the left wing once more. The youngster then cut inside before playing a ball perfectly for Husbands to fire home after he had managed to find space inside the area.

There was still time for The Saddlers to add a third in stoppage time at the end of the half when a corner kick was headed back across goal by Scott Dann who was up from the back. The ball found its way to Bradley who got his head to the ball to score from close range.

The first action of the second half saw Larrosa fire over after yet more good work by Demontagnac. However, it didn't take the visitors long to get back into it with a goal in the next attack as Jarman beat Leaver before firing home with a sweet strike.

A long ball by Staunton on the hour-mark picked out Husbands who got the ball under control, held off the attentions of his marker before tucking the ball past the 'keeper to complete his hat-trick.

Within minutes The Saddlers had added a fifth goal as Demontagnac set Husbands racing away and he played an intelligent ball inside for Larrosa to fire home in space.

After Leaver was replaced by Jay Sztybel, Larrosa went close to adding another goal as he saw his effort from close range cleared off the line after a Bradley header had reached him at the far post.

Hat-trick hero Husbands was replaced by Alex Nicholls before Larrosa should have done better when Bradley's through-ball beat the offisde trap only for the Argentinean to put his effort wide of the mark.

Staunton managed to come through 74 minutes of action as he recovers from a calf injury. He was replaced by youngster Emanuel Smith who took his place in the heart of the three-man defensive unit.

With just over ten minutes to go a long crossfield ball picked out Larrosa who found space amongst the ten-men of Barnsley to fire home with much aplomb and make it 6-2.

A positive run by Sztybel on 83 minutes ended with him unleashing a dipping shot from distance that flew just over, but it mattered not as Walsall ran out comfortable winners in what was our first Pontin's Holidays League Division One Central win of the campaign.

WALSALL: Tilt, Leaver (Sztybel), Bennett, Dann, Staunton (E. Smith), Kinsella, Bradley, Deakin, Larrosa, Husbands (Nicholls), Demontagnac. Subs not used: Bowen, McKeown.

WALSALL 5 BRADFORD CITY 1 - 3/10/2005

THE SADDLERS' second string made it 11 goals in two Pontin's Holidays League Division One Central fixtures with a 5-1 victory over Bradford City in a game that saw Ian Roper play a full 90 minutes as he comes back from injury.

The first sight of goal fell to Graham Deakin who hit a powerful low shot that was saved by the visiting 'keeper on three minutes.

The Saddlers made a promising start to the game with Jay Sztybel in particular looking lively and seeing plenty of the early ball as he put in a number of telling crosses.

We duly got our noses in front on 11 minutes when a long ball by Mark Kinsella was latched onto by the pace of Michael Husbands and as he lifted the ball over the advancing 'keeper, Dario Larrosa was left with the simple task of stooping to head into an uguarded net from close range.

Shortly afterwards at the other end, Rene Gilmartin saved well from a stinging Kevin Sanasy drive.

An intelligent ball from Kinsella on 22 minutes presented Husbands with a chance through the middle but the 'keeper was alert and did enough to put him off as he lined up an effort.

There were too many passes starting to go astray by both sides as the half went on. A stinging shot from Husbands was pushed out by the 'keeper on the half-hour mark and as Larrosa looked to capitalise upon the loose ball, the Bradford defence was able to clear their lines.

The Saddlers were creating the better chances and looking the more likely side as Husbands saw another effort kept out by the 'keeper as he broke through, however right on the stroke of half-time Sanasy curled the ball home from just inside the area as he was given too much space to make it 1-1 going into the break.

The second period began with a marauding run down the left by Julian Bennett. He attempted to play in Larrosa in the middle but the 'keeper got there just before him.

Ian Roper was booked for one of his trademark robust challenges as he made a solid and steady return to the action.

The Saddlers regained the lead on 56 minutes when a mistake by the 'keeper saw him misjudge a low crossfield ball, allowing Larrosa to fire home.

It wasn't long before a free-kick was delivered invitingly into the danger zone by Deakin but Larrosa failed to convert at the far post in a good position.

At the other end, Gilmartin saved well with his feet as Joe Brown beat the offside trap.

Husbands was replaced by Alex Nicholls, who was fresh from scoring a hat-trick for the youth team at the weekend, whilst Mark Bradley came on to replace Kinsella after Kris Taylor had curled a free-kick from a dangerous position over.

Our third goal of the evening arrived with around a quarter-of-an-hour to go as Larrosa picked out strike partner Nicholls in space and he controlled well before confidently firing home.

Within minutes it was 4-1 as The Saddlers started to find space all over the park and Deakin was able to pick out Kris Taylor to his left and he fired a low shot in off the post.

Deakin was forced to leave the action after taking a knock in the 80th minute and he was replaced by David McDermott whose first contribution was to pick up a ball from Scott Dann before running at the visitors' defence and threading a sweet ball through for Nicholls who fired home unchallenged to make it 5-1.

Some good running by Nicholls saw him ride a challenge before crossing for Larrosa whose deft header fell just the wrong side of the post.

The Argentine front-man then missed a great chance as he broke through. The ball was blocked on the first occasion and then deflected just wide from the rebound.

In the closing stages, Brown fired agonisingly across the face of goal for Bradford, but The Saddlers ran out convincing winners.

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Leaver, Bennett, Dann, Roper, Kinsella (Bradley), Deakin (McDermott), K. Taylor, Larrosa, Husbands (Nicholls), Sztybel. Subs not used: E. Smith, Tilt.

WALSALL 8 BIDDULPH VICTORIA 1 (STAFFORDSHIRE SENIOR CUP FIRST ROUND) - 11/10/2005

THE SADDLERS breezed into the next round of the Staffordshire Senior Challenge Cup, knocking eight goals past non-League Biddulph Victoria to win 8-1 at a wet Bescot Stadium. Ian Roper came through the full 90 minutes and even managed to get his name on the scoresheet!

It was actually the visitors who had the first chance early on when a loose ball from skipper, Scott Dann found its way to John Paul Jones whose low shot was deflected just wide.

In driving rain, The Saddlers soon found their stride and on six minutes we took the lead as David McDermott found the net.

The visiting 'keeper had to be alert to deny both McDermott and Dario Larrosa in quick succession soon afterwards before a good ball into the feet of Larrosa by Jay Sztybel saw the Argentinean striker control well in front of goal but blast well over.

It wasn't long before we doubled our advantage, though as some more good play out wide by Sztybel saw him cross dangerously and the low ball found its way into the net off a Biddulph defender in front of goal.

The visitors pulled a goal back shortly afterwards as a corner was not properly cleared and Jones fired home despite The Saddlers' best attempts to clear on the line.

Within seconds our two-goal advantage was restored as a good touch by Kris Taylor saw Larrosa beat the offside trap in the middle and rifle home.

It was 4-1 on 25 minutes as Eric Bowen was allowed to run at the defence from the left and he cut inside before arrowing a fine strike beyond the helpless 'keeper.

With ten minutes to go before the break, McDermott notched his second and Walsall's fifth as Sztybel did well on the by-line as he received a pass from Kris Taylor before he picking out McDermott in space right in front of goal and he couldn't miss.

McDermott was then involved in the sixth goal just before the break as he won a free-kick on the right which was teasingly delivered into the danger zone and Ian Roper, up from the back, was able to direct the ball into the net from close range.

The second period started with a powerful shot from the lively Sztybel that came back off the post and into the path of Larrosa whose side-footed effort was cleared off the line.

On 52 minutes it was 7-1 as Richard Taundry found Kris Taylor who placed a superb left-footed shot from distance beyond the 'keepers reach.

The were three changes in quick succession for The Saddlers as firstly Brazilian youngster, Oriando Demelo replaced Sztybel, then Harry Harris came on for McDermott before Mark Bradley made way for Charlton Davies just past the hour-mark.

With the game won, Walsall coasted through the second period as the rain continued to fall heavily. With ten minutes to go, Larrosa broke through but was denied by a brave block by the 'keeper who recovered well to also deny Kris Taylor as he followed up.

The scoring was rounded off on 88 minutes when Larrosa bagged his second following a corner from the right to complete an easy passage for The Saddlers against opposition who kept going until the end and didn't let their heads drop.

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Leaver, Taundry, Dann, Roper, Bradley (Davies), Sztybel (Demelo), McDermott (Harris), Larrosa, K. Taylor, Bowen. Subs not used: Clayton, Tilt.

ROTHERHAM UNITED 6 WALSALL 0 - 26/10/2005

AN EXTREMELY youthful Saddlers' reserve team have slipped to a heavy 6-0 defeat at the hands of an experienced Rotherham United line-up.

With five youngsters in the starting line-up who were getting their first taste of Pontin's Holidays League Premier Division action, Walsall were always up against it as our run of three games without defeat came to an end at a wet Millmoor.

The home side started strongly but we battled bravely in the opening period, with Mark Kinsella using his experience well, and as the half-time interval approached it looked as though we had weathered the storm. That was until an error by Peter Doran allowed Rotherham to take the lead on the stroke of half-time.

With five first-year youth teamers in the side, we were happy with our first half showing, but the home side added a second just five minutes after the restart. Alex Nicholls went close with a header shortly afterwards that was well saved and once more we battled well until ten minutes from time when a combination of tiredness and inexperience took over and we got over-run as we conceded a further four goals.

In the end the scoreline flattered the home side, but it was an important learning curve for the lads.

WALSALL: Rene Gilmartin, Shaun Leaver, Philip Doran, Lee Clayton (Emanuel Smith), Peter Doran, Mark Kinsella, Richard Taundry (Leon Quarles), Charlton Davies (Ross Clarke), Alex Nicholls, David McDermott, Eric Bowen. Sub not used: Luke Tilt.

NUNEATON BOROUGH 5 WALSALL 1 (BIRMINGHAM SENIOR CUP) - 1/11/2005

AN EXTREMELY youthful Saddlers side slumped out of the Birmingham Senior Cup with a 5-1 defeat at Nuneaton Borough.

We created some good chances in the opening period, with David McDermott in particular looking lively and causing the home side problems.

Things were looking pretty even for most of the first half, but Luke Tilt was the busier of the two 'keepers and he made some smart saves. However, he was finally beaten on 35 minutes as Nuneaton took the lead.

The second period began with Jay Sztybel missing three good openings that he created for himself. The third of which saw the home side hit us on the counter-attack and double their advantage.

The greater experience of Nuneaton began to tell as the game went on and it wasn't long before they added a third.

We managed to pull a goal back as Emanuel Smith came up from the back at a corner to force the ball home, but we went on to concede two more goals as the home side turned the screw.

In the end we were left to reflect upon missed chances and some naive defending from our youngsters.

WALSALL: Tilt, Leaver, Taundry, Smith, Clayton, Bradley, Sztybel, Davies, Nicholls, McDermott, Bowen. Subs: Quarles, Harris, Peter Doran, Meakin-Richards, McKeown.

NOTTINGHAM FOREST 8 WALSALL 0 - 9/11/2005

ONE OF our youngest-ever reserve team line-ups has gone down by eight goals to nil at the hands of Nottingham Forest.

On a poor playing surface at Burton Albion's new Pirelli Stadium and against much more experienced opposition, the current injury situation here at Bescot Stadium meant that we were forced to send our youth team to play this fixture, minus two of our best young players.

Our situation was not helped just past the quarter-hour mark when central defender, Emanuel Smith was forced to limp out of the action.

Within 20 minutes we found ourselves three goals down as we struggled to cope with Forest's pace and sharpness and this hit our boys' confidence. By half-time we trailed 5-0 but, credit to the youngsters, they came out fighting for the second period and got stronger as the half wore on.

We had a couple of chances to get on the scoresheet, firstly as Charlton Davies struck the post following a neat three-man move before the home 'keeper was forced to save well late on to deny Alex Nicholls.

With time running out we conceded a disputed penalty for Forest's sixth goal and right at the death they added two further strikes. "It was all part of the lads' learning experience," said Youth Development Officier, Bill Jones. "I have never known us field such a youthful reserve team and we just couldn't live with Forest's extra experience, pace and strength, particularly in the first half.

"To their credit, our boys kept battling away and gave a better account of themselves after the break, with 16 year-olds Richard Taundry and Charlton Davies doing very well.

"The game was played in the right spirit and, to be fair, all of Forest's goals were decent efforts. We must now make sure that we learn lessons from this game and try to use it as productively as we possibly can."

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Taundry, Clayton, Smith (Peter Doran), Leaver, Sztybel, Davies, Platt, Quarles (Clarke), Nicholls, McDermott. Subs not used: Meakin-Richards, Tilt.

SHEFFIELD UNITED A 1 WALSALL 2 - 29/11/2005

THE SADDLERS' reserve team have chalked up a fine 2-1 win against a vastly experienced Sheffield United A side.

We came under a lot of pressure in the opening ten minutes or so, but our young defence held firm and we eventually settled down and started to play some neat football.

On the quarter-hour mark, Daryl Taylor missed a great chance at the far post, but we eventually got the goal that our football deserved when James Constable - playing his first full game for the club - finished off a neat five-man move in the 25th minute.

Ten minutes later, Daryl Taylor was presented with another chance but this time he was denied by a fine stop from the 'keeper.

We were on top as the half came to a close, but our hosts came out with all guns blazing for the start of the second period and we had youth team 'keeper, Luke Tilt to thank for a great save.

With Anthony Gerrard having a particularly impressive game in the heart of our back-line, The Blades managed to find an equaliser just before the hour-mark when Ian Ross found the net with a well-taken effort.

We decided to bring on David McDermott in place of Jay Sztybel in the hope that he would hold the ball up for us and that is exactly what he did to change the whole complexion of the game and it wasn't long before we started to apply the pressure again.

The winning goal finally arrived with ten minutes left on the clock as Daryl Taylor's teasing corner was headed on by Gerrard for defensive partner, Jonny Harkness who found the net at the far post.

With time running out, Tilt made a couple of decent stops as we ran out deserved winners. "This was our best reserve team performance of the season by a long way," said second string boss, Mark Kinsella. "Each of our players came out of the game with credit, but I was particularly pleased with the performance of Anthony Gerrard and Jonny Harkness at the back.

"I am thrilled to bits that we were able to play such experienced opposition off the park for long periods. The lads worked extremely hard and got their reward."

WALSALL: Tilt, Vaughan, Leaver, Gerrard, Harkness, Bradley, D. Taylor, K. Taylor, Constable, Nicholls, Sztybel (McDermott). Subs not used: Platt, C. Davies, Bowen.

CHASETOWN 4 WALSALL 0 (STAFFORDSHIRE SENIOR CUP) - 7/12/2005

THE SADDLERS crashed out of the Staffordshire Senior Cup with a 4-0 defeat at Chasetown.

The home side came out fired up for the game and started strongly. It took them just five minutes to get their noses in front and then they went on to add a second on the quarter-hour mark as our young defence made a nervy start to the proceedings.

We eventually started to settle down as the half wore on and had a good penalty appeal turned down before manager, Paul Merson - who was playing his first game back following a groin injury that he sustained at the end of September - had an effort that was well saved by The Scholars' 'keeper.

We were playing the better football towards the end of the first period, but Chasetown hit us on the break to make it 3-0 going into half-time to give us a real mountain to climb after the restart.

Paul Merson and Mark Kinsella were both replaced at the interval by Jay Sztybel and Alex Nicholls and we started to move the ball around at a much quicker pace in the opening exchanges of the second half in what were difficult, wet conditions that suited the home side more so than ourselves.

We remained on top as Dario Larrosa was replaced by David McDermott, and the diminutive substitute made an immediate impression with some lively play. However, we were caught out again when Chasetown broke away to add a fourth goal.

Despite heading out of the competition, we continued to press without managing to get onto the scoresheet. "We have tried to take as many positives out of the game as possible," said Mark Kinsella. "It was a good experience for our youngsters playing in front of a crowd of around 500 and in those type of conditions, and I have no doubt that it will help in their progress.

"I thought that Richard Taundry was particularly impressive, but hopefully everyone will learn from that."

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Taundry, Sansara, E. Smith, Harkness, Kinsella (Nicholls), Bradley, K. Taylor, Constable, Merson (Sztybel), Larrosa (McDermott). Sub not used: Tilt.

WALSALL 0 SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY 1 - 14/12/2005

A YOUTHFUL Saddlers' reserve team has slipped to a last-gasp defeat at the hands of top-of-the-table Sheffield Wednesday.

Against experienced opposition, we shaded the first half in what was a competitive encounter played in the right spirit at Tamworth's Lamb Ground.

Our back-line looked particularly solid, whilst the experienced Mark Kinsella pulled the strings in the midfield.

Chances at either end were few and far between, although the best opportunity fell to Kris Taylor just before the break as he beat a couple of players before firing just wide.

Sheffield Wednesday came into it more after the restart and the returning Andy Oakes was forced to make a couple of good saves, whilst they also hit the post and crossbar.

Nevertheless, our youngsters continued to battle hard and give their all on what was a fine surface. We were dealt a blow in injury time at the end when Oakes parried a shot and the loose ball was fired home to give our visitors all three points. "Obviously we were bitterly disappointed to have lost the game so late on," said reserve team boss, Mark Kinsella. "But our boys can be proud of their efforts; it was a good, worthwhile work-out for them and they will benefit from the experience.

"It was nice to see Andy Oakes come through his first game since the beginning of September and he made some good saves.

"We must also thank Tamworth FC for letting us use what is an excellent playing surface."

WALSALL: Oakes, Vaughan, Leaver, Peter Doran, Harkness, Kinsella (Meakin-Richards), Platt, Deakin, Constable (Nicholls), Hanna, K. Taylor. SUBS NOT USED: Clayton, Gilmartin.

WALSALL 1 OLDHAM ATHLETIC 2 - 11/1/2006

THE SADDLERS second-string suffered a 2-1 defeat at the hands of an in-form Oldham Athletic in the Pontin's Holidays League this afternoon.

In an entertaining match at The Grove, it was The Saddlers who created the first chance of the game when Michael Standing worked himself into a good position but blazed over from close range.

Rene Gilmartin was called in to action on the quarter-of-an-hour mark, saving well from a Latics attack.

The young Irish 'keeper was on hand again just past the half-hour mark, ensuring that the scores remained level as the game approached half-time.

Oldham managed to get their noses in front ten minutes after the restart when Chris Taylor finished off a well-worked three-man move.

The Saddlers hit back and just past the hour some good work from Mark Bradley set up Ishmel Demontagnac but the youngster's drive flew just wide.

Five minutes later and The Latics doubled their lead when Will Haining rose highest to meet an in-swinging corner before bulleting his header past Gilmartin.

Youngster Chris Hanna replaced Jay Sztybel and as before, we hit straight back, this time managing to get a goal that our second half display deserved. Standing worked himself into a good position before crossing for Taiwo Atieno. The bustling striker, who has recently returned from a loan spell with Kidderminster Harriers, made no mistake from close-range to give The Saddlers a lifeline.

However, it wasn't to be and, despite a couple of late scares, Oldham hung on to record their eighth victory of the Pontin's Holidays League season.

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Bradley, Leaver, E. Smith, Westwood, Standing, Sztybel (Hanna), Deakin, Nicholls, Atieno., Demontagnac. Subs not used: C. Davies, Kinsella, Tilt.

BARNSLEY 1 WALSALL 2 - 25/1/2006

TWO GOALS from Taiwo Atieno have helped The Saddlers' second string to a 2-1 win at Barnsley.

The game opened up at a fast pace, with the home side creating a couple of early chances that Rene Gilmartin in the Walsall goal was equal to.

The Irish youngster then went on to make a fine double save before Barnsley got their noses in front when Scott Dann was punished for a slight error and Tom Beevor opened the scoring.

It brought The Saddlers to life and we started to get a hold on the game, culminating in an inviting cross from Shaun Leaver being guided home from six yards by Atieno on 25 minutes to level the scores.

We went on to get our noses in front as this time Jay Sztybel showed skill out wide before delivering another cross that was perfect for the head of Atieno who planted the ball firmly beyond The Tykes' 'keeper.

The second half was an entertaining affair, with Barnsley having the edge, but Gilmartin was in good form to deny them on a number of occasions. In fact, the youthful back four in front of him also looked solid even after we were forced to change things around when Dann was withdrawn from the action after feeling unwell.

It meant that Harry Harris came on into the midfield with Mark Bradley moving from the middle of the park to a central defensive position, where he has performed superbly in recent youth team matches.

There was a scare when Barnsley struck the post with ten minutes left on the clock, but our young side managed to hold on and claim our fourth victory of the season. "I thought it was an excellent game played in the right spirit throughout," said reserve team boss, Mark Kinsella. "Our boys battled hard and ended up running out worthy winners.

"The goalkeeper and defence were made to work hard, but they did their jobs well and I thought that Taiwo Atieno had a good game and scored a couple of impressive goals."

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Leaver, Sansara, Dann (Harris), E. Smith, Deakin, Sztybel, Bradley, Atieno, Lyne, George. Subs not used: Peter Doran, Bowen.

STOKE CITY 3 WALSALL 1 - 22/2/2006

THE SADDLERS' second string slipped to a 3-1 defeat against a more experienced Stoke City line-up.

Under the watchful eye of new first-team manager, Kevan Broadhurst just hours after his appointment, Walsall started the game well, passing the ball around sharply and taking the lead on 21 minutes through David McDermott after Rene Gilmartin had saved well at the other end moments earlier.

The goal came following some determined play by Graham Deakin who broke forward before releasing McDermott who fired home with a hard and low effort.

There was a nasty challenge on youth-teamer, Shaun Leaver in the 40th minute which saw the youngster carried from the field with suspected knee ligament damage as a melee followed. Netan Sansara came on to replace him.

Having had the better of the first half, The Saddlers were good value for their 1-0 advantage going into the half-time interval. However, the home side came out with real purpose at the start of the second period and eventually got back on level terms when we lost the ball in midfield and were punished as Stoke broke away to score just before the hour-mark.

James Constable had our best opportunity of the second half shortly afterwards, whilst at the other end, Gilmartin kept the scores level with a couple of decent saves.

He could do little to prevent Stoke from taking the lead on 67 minutes when another loose ball was seized upon and the opportunity converted.

With Eric Bowen on in place of McDermott, some sloppy defensive play from a corner allowed the home side to extend their lead from close range, although there appeared to be a foul on trialist right-back, Patrick Flynn in the build-up which was not seen by the referee who then booked Flynn for his protests.

The game then petered out after that as we failed to find a way back. "We had the better of the first half but didn't take our chances," said reserve team boss, Mark Kinsella. "Stoke came into it after the break and with a more experienced side went on to punish us."

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Flynn, Leaver (Sansara), Dann, Bradley, Standing, Sztybel, Deakin, Atieno, Constable, McDermott (Bowen). Subs not used: Kinsella, Tilt.

WALSALL 1 SHEFFIELD UNITED 0 - 13/3/2006

THE SADDLERS' second string have completed an impressive Pontin's Holidays League double over Sheffield United with a 1-0 win at a breezy Bescot Stadium.

The only goal of the game came after just four minutes when Mads Timm neatly played in James Constable who strode through the middle before confidently tucking the ball home beyond Jamie Annerson in the visitors' goal.

Constable caused more problems for the United defence on the quarter-hour mark as he made his presence felt in between the goalkeeper and centre back, but between them they managed to scramble clear.

At the other end, Rene Gilmartin made a couple of clean and commanding catches from corners, whilst youth team left-back, Netan Sansara put in a well-timed sliding challenge inside the area to deny a purposeful raid from the Yorkshiremen.

In what was a hard-fought contest, both sides battled well but real goalscoring chances were few and far between at either end. On the stroke of half-time, Mark Kinsella dragged a shot wide from outside the area as Walsall went in at the break deservedly in front.

Taiwo Atieno came on to replace goalscorer Constable just after the restart and certainly made his presence felt early on.

With 48 minutes on the clock, some tricky play on the edge of the area by Timm saw him open up a shooting opportunity for himself but his effort flashed just wide.

Seven minutes later, a long ball forward set Ishmel Demontagnac away in chase and he managed to get to the ball first before seeing his effort cleared off the line by Chris Robertson.

There was a half-chance for United at the other end but Adrian Harper blazed over.

Skipper Chris Westwood was withdrawn on the hour as youngster, Emanuel Smith took his place alongside Ian Roper in the heart of the back-line.

There was a booking for Scott Fitzgerald shortly afterwards for a late challenge. It was the on-loan Brentford man who had the next opportunity as he latched on to a powerful header forward from Emanuel Smith but his shot from just outside the area was always rising and failed to trouble the 'keeper.

The Saddlers started to up the tempo as the second half wore on and a neat move just outside the area ended with Timm firing over.

A niggle started to creep into the game in the final quarter with tackles flying in from both sides as the referee was kept very much on his toes.

Jay Sztybel entered the action to replace Mark Kinsella as United pushed forward in search of the equaliser. There was a let-off in the 79th minute when San Lee lost control of the ball at the vital moment to allow Gilmartin to gather, before the Irish youngster saved acrobatically from Jordan Robertson's drive from distance that swerved in the wind.

A late chance saw Ryan Cresswell denied by Gilmartin as The Saddlers got men back to clear and secure a victory in what was a good work-out for the likes of James Constable, Mads Timm and Chris Westwood who are coming back from recent injury.

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Leaver, Sansara, Roper, Westwood (E. Smith), Timm, Standing, Kinsella (Sztybel), Constable (Atieno), Fitzgerald, Demontagnac. Sub not used: Dann.

WALSALL 4 ROTHERHAM UNITED 1 - 27/3/2006

THE SADDLERS' second-string recorded a 4-1 victory over Rotherham United at a rain-soaked Bescot Stadium.

With both teams fielding a number of players with first-team experience, this in the Pontin's Holiday League fixture got off to a flying start. Andrew Barrowman fed Eric Bowen on six minutes but the youngsters cross was too deep for the oncoming Scott Fitzgerald.

Rotherham were next to push forward when Ryan Taylor forced a good save from Rene Gilmartin. Former Walsall striker, Martin Butler flashed a shot wide soon after when he really should have made Gilmartin work once more.

It was The Saddlers who opened the scoring however when Mark Bradley skipped past his marker and unleashed an unstoppable drive past Neil Cutler in The Millers goal on the ten-minute mark.

Just three minutes, and the lead was doubled. James Constable's low-drive was well saved but from the resultant corner, Emanuel Smith's far-post header was prodded home from close range by Scott Fitzgerald.

Buoyed by their two early goals, The Saddlers continued to dominate proceedings without creating any more clear-cut chances.

There was a scare just past the half-hour mark when Will Hoskins seized upon a sloppy back-pass by Fitzgerald. However, the big striker had Gilmartin to thank, as he saved well at the feet of the United forward.

Graham Deakin almost made it three-nil in the 35^th minute but his first time volley was well saved.

Rotherham clawed their was back into the tie on the stroke of half-time when Hoskins, with his back to goal, created a chance out of nothing. He turned his marker inside the penalty box and teed up Butler, who curled a low drive past Gilmartin to make it 2-1 at the break.

The second-half started in a similar vein to the opening 45 minutes with plenty of goalmouth action.

Butler almost brought the scores level straight from the restart but Gilmartin was equal to his long-range effort.

It was 3-1 moments later though as Emanuel Smith headed home a pinpoint Fitzgerald centre.

Mark Bradley almost extended the lead further in the 49^th minute but his speculative 30-yard effort cannoned off the bar.

It was 4-1 four minutes later though when Andrew Barrowman pounced to slam the ball home from close range after Cutler failed to hold on to Constable's long-range effort.

The former Blues man should have made it five in the 65^th minute when he was put clean through by the combative Graham Deakin but he fired well over before being replaced moments later by David McDermott.

The Saddlers made a second change in the 71^st minute when Jay Sztybel came on for Scott Fitzgerald as the conditions deteriorated.

Martin Butler continued to make chances for the visitors and forced another good save from Gilmartin, who pushed the ball around the post for a corner, which the big Irishman gathered at the second attempt.

A combination of Craig Pead and Gilmartin kept The Saddlers' three-goal cushion intact when a drive from Rotherham substitute, Jamie Yates ricocheted off the pair before finding its way to safety.

Charlton Davies replaced Graham Deakin with ten minutes to go and the half-ended as it started with Gilmartin making another competent save from a Butler effort to ensure a 4-1 victory for The Saddlers.

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Pead, Leaver, Bradley, Bains, E. Smith, Bowen, Deakin (C. Davies), Constable, Barrowman (McDermott), Fitzgerald (Sztybel). Subs not used: Kinsella, Tilt.

WALSALL 3 NOTTINGHAM FOREST 3 - 3/4/2006

THE SADDLERS' second string played out a 3-3 draw with Nottingham Forest.

There was just three minutes on the clock when a deflected shot by Michael Leary was pushed out by Dale Roberts in the visitors' goal into the path of James Constable who fired home from a tight angle.

Forest were soon back on level terms when the ball fell out to Nicky Southall just inside the area and he fired powerfully beyond Luke Tilt.

Both teams were trying to play at a decent tempo without creating too many clear-cut chances as the half went on.

After Felix Bastians had dragged a shot wide, he played a part in the build-up to Forest's second goal as he beat Craig Pead to a header to set-up a chance for Paul Evans who found himself unmarked to head home on 27 minutes.

There was a brief flashpoint on the half-hour mark after a heacy challenge on Leary by Danny Cullip, who moments later saw a header deflected just over following a corner.

The scores were level with seven minutes to go to the break as Fitzgerald broke the offside trap out wide on the right before crossing low and invitingly into the path of Constable who fired home, giving the 'keeper no chance whatsoever.

Jay Sztybel was introduced into the action in place of Graham Deakin at the start of the second period, but it was Forest who had the first chance as Sam Mullarkey broke through, but he was denied by a fine save from Tilt.

With 57 minutes on the clock, a pacy break by the visitors saw Bastians set up Southall who coolly fired the ball across Tilt and into the net to put his side 3-2 to the good.

The lead didn't last long, however, as Ishmel Demontagnac mananged to confidently lift the ball over the advancing 'keeper from just inside the area for a fine goal.

There was an impressive tackle by Mark Bradley to deny Jon-Paul Pittman at the other end as he strode through before a weak header back by Mark Kinsella almost let in Mullarkey but he was denied by the alertness of Tilt who cleared from outside his penalty area.

Youngster Eric Bowen came on to replace Leary in the 67th minute as The Saddlers had Tilt to thank once more for a fine save from a close range header by Evans following a teasing cross from the right.

Some good link-up play between Constable and Fitzgerald ended with a sweet strike from Fitzgerald flying just wide with the 'keeper scrambling across his goal.

It was to be Constable's last involvement in the action as he was replaced by David McDermott.

As the game petered out, both sides had half-chances with Demontagnac looking lively for Walsall and Evans seeing a shot blocked by Kinsella for the visitors, but in the end it was honours even.

WALSALL: Tilt, Pead, Leaver, Kinsella, Bradley, Leary (Bowen), Fitzgerald, Deakin (Sztybel), Constable (McDermott), Barrowman, Demontagnac. Sub not used: Gilmartin.

BRADFORD CITY 4 WALSALL 0 - 6/4/2006

AN INEXPERIENCED Saddlers' reserve team have slipped to a 4-0 defeat at the hands of Bradford City.

We started the game by playing some neat and tidy football but lacked punch up front. The home side got their noses in front on the half-hour mark, but we failed to let our heads drop and continued to battle gamely for the remainder of the first half.

Bradford started to make their greater experience tell as the second period went on, with our back-line coming under increasing pressure.

They eventually doubled their lead with 75 minutes on the clock before a slip in defence by youth teamer, Lee Clayton allowed them to make it 3-0 shortly afterwards.

We continued to play some decent stuff as we searched for a consolation goal, but got caught out pushing up in the final minute as our hosts notched a break-away goal to complete the scoring. "We played some nice football without really hurting our opponents," said reserve team boss, Mark Kinsella. "In the end our inexperience told, but the lads can learn from this and use it as part of their development in the game.

"Mark Bradley has an impressive game in the heart of defence, whilst Harry Harris looked lively in midfield."

WALSALL: Tilt, Bowen (C. Davies), Leaver, Clayton, Bradley, Harris, Standing, Deakin, McDermott, Hanna, Sztybel (Peter Doran). Sub not used: Kinsella.

WALSALL 1 HUDDERSFIELD TOWN 1 - 12/4/2006

THE SADDLERS' young reserve team played out a 1-1 draw with a more experienced Huddersfield Town outfit at The Lamb, home of Tamworth FC.

In what was an excellent game played in the right spirit, both teams had chances and in the end a draw was probably a fair result.

Walsall's youngsters were well marshalled throughout by Mark Kinsella, who did well in the heart of the side, and we took the lead in 75th minute when a well-worked set-piece saw Graham Deakin's corner headed invitingly back across goal by trialist Jay Denney for David McDermott to find the net.

Denney looked lively in the midfield, starting the game in the centre but also playing out on the right-hand side for a time.

The visitors snatched an equaliser with five minutes left on the clock and almost won the game at the death, only to be denyed by a fine save from Rene Gilmartin.

WALSALL: Gilmartin, Bradley, Leaver, E. Smith, Dann, Deakin, Denney, Kinsella, Sztybel, McDermott, Bowen. Subs not used: Harris, C. Davies, Quarless, Tilt.

HUDDERSFIELD TOWN 1 WALSALL 0 - 19/4/2006