Scotia Smith's match report...
On a blustery afternoon at The Bescot, Walsall took on a highly-rated Charlton Athletic side. A crowd of 4586, including 739 away supporters, witnessed the game.Both teams had 4 points and had identical records – one win, one draw and one loss. This would be a tough game for The Saddlers.
Walsall kicked-off and the first ten minutes were very cagey. Walsall had the first couple of shots from Moussa and Edwards and then had a penalty shout after Simeon Jackson went over in the penalty box. Not given!
There was also a great chance for Jackson to put the Saddlers in front but he was denied glory by the Charlton goalie and Morris’s follow up didn’t get past him either.
In the 42nd minute, disaster struck for Walsall as Ajose slotted in Charlton’s opener and they held on until half-time.
After the break, Walsall piled on the pressure and had shots left, right and centre. But to no avail. Bakayoko came on for Makris and finally, in the 71st minute, Walsall got what they were waiting for - Morris smashed in a brilliant equalizer from outside the box.
However, the relief was short-lived as Ajose scored for Charlton again a minute later, making the score 2-1.
Fresh legs were now needed by the home team and Cuvelier and Oztumer replaced Moussa and Dobson.
This led to two great chances right at the end of the match. Firstly, Jackson had a fantastic shot saved and at the very end a massive goalmouth scramble almost led to a second equalizer. However, it was not to be.
In his press conference, the manager, said he was disappointed with the result and said his side needed to get the points against Bury next week.