Two games in quick succession for Neil Woods' youngsters...
THE SADDLERS' youth team have had a busy few days with two away games in quick succession.Having won 2-1 at Tranmere Rovers, we then slipped to a 3-1 reverse at Accrington Stanley in windy conditions.
"Against Tranmere we started the game brightly and played some of the neat football that we were earlier in the season," said Woods. "We deservedly took the lead when Tevin Shakepeare finished off a good team move and at that stage we were well in control.
"The only disappointment was that we couldn't add to our lead and our hosts managed to equalise from a set-piece just before the break.
"We continued to control the play in the second half and regained the lead when Shakespeare showed good awareness to close the 'keeper down before finishing for his second.
"Further chances followed, which we were unable to take advantage of, but in the end we ran out worthy winners. Overall it was an outstanding display by all involved.
"We followed it up with a trip to Accrington as we decided to give some of the younger lads an opportunity with an eye towards next season.
"The conditions were blustery to say the least. With 25 minutes on the clock we managed get our noses in front through Levi Rowley and as the half went on we remained in control of the game, however, a defensive mistake allowed our hosts to level matters.
"Accrington then went in front before half-time and at that stage we really were chasing shadows.
"I was hoping that the interval would galvanise us, but after missing a couple of early chances in the second period, our hosts went on to add a third goal to their tally.
"Our performance fizzled out after that, which was disappointing to say the least."
WALSALL (v Tranmere Rovers): Jezeph, Roberts, Probert, Sangha, K. Rowley, R. Smith, Delaney, Kouhyar, Shakespeare, L. Rowley. Owen. Subs not used: J. Smith, Oliver, Pooni.
WALSALL (v Accrington Stanley): Jezeph, Roberts, R. Smith, Sangha, K. Rowley, Vann (Maddocks), Oliver (Hayes-Docherty), Kouhyar, Pooni (Pewis), L. Rowley, Owen.