Jon Whitney is hoping Walsall can turn the Banks’s into something of a fortress.
The Saddlers entertain Oldham tomorrow for what is our first home match of the 2017/18 League One season.
And after successive defeats against Bury and Sheffield United, Whitney is eager to start the home campaign with three points.
“It’s great to be back at home,” said the former Hull and Lincoln defender. "There’ll be quite a few home debuts and there’s a bit of excitement in the camp.
“We want to get our season on track, similar to Oldham, and we want to start fighting for some points at home.
“We’re going to make our place very energised and a difficult and hostile place for opponents to come and play.
“We’re optimistic ahead of the weekend.”
Oldham have also lost their two opening two matches – 2-0 against Oxford and 3-2 to Burton in the Carabao Cup.
But Whitney is expecting a tough test against a Latics side who improved significantly under boss John Sheridan in the second half of last season.
“I know John really well," he commented. "I used to play with his brother at Winsford United and he’ll have them fit, organised.
“He had a few lads on loan last year and he’s signed them on permanently now. He’s got a threat up top with Davies and Holloway, they’ve got Duffus from Everton.
“He’s come in a couple of times now and saved their season, and he’ll be looking to not be fighting at that end of the table.
“He’s similar to me in that he needs to get points. He’s lost the first two at home and they’ll be looking to get points on the board.
“They’re tough opposition and make you fight for every inch because John will demand that from his players – but we demand that from our players as well.”