THESE next two matches are both against teams above us in the League One table, but we go into the festive period full of confidence and determined to give a good account of ourselves.

Our pre-Christmas clash with Leyton Orient saw the players display plenty of character, commitment and energy during the second half to recover from what was an extremely disappointing first half showing.

We gave ourselves a real mountain to climb after going two goals down but almost reached the top of that mountain after starting the second period with purpose and determination.

For me there was only going to be one winner after the break, but despite creating plenty of chances, that crucial third goal eluded us.

However, we will take the positives into our next two matches against two teams who have been members of the top-flight in recent seasons.

Norwich have quality throughout their side and have enjoyed some soild form this season. It will be a tough test for us, but we proved at Carrow Road earlier in the season that we can be more than a match for them if we roll our sleeves up and work hard.

They are sure to bring a large and vocal following with them, so I would like to hear our supporters in good voice right from the off to create a special atmosphere within the stadium.

The game has all the ingredients to be a real cracker. Every game at this level presents its own challenges and this one will be no different.

2010 starts with the visit of Charlton Athletic, another club who are amongst the favourites to be there or thereabouts in the promotion race come the end of the season.

We know only too well that we will have to reach the high standards that we have set ourselves over the course of the season so far. Like all of our opponents, we will respect Charlton, but not fear them.

Again, they have quality in all positions, but with a large crowd in attendance, we will be looking to give a good account of ourselves.

There is still a long way to go this season and a lot still to play for. I know it's a well-used cliche, but we will take things very much one game at a time and see where it takes us.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish all Walsall supporters and their families a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year.

Thank you for your support in 2009 - here's to a successful 2010...

CHRIS HUTCHINGS