A decent crowd of 5759, including 1100 noisy Gasheads, witnessed this League One clash on a bitterly cold Boxing Day afternoon at The Bescot.
The game started slowly and was a bit messy for the first 15 minutes or so. Both sides seemed to be struggling with a post-Christmas hangover.
Ismail tried to spark his team into life with two good surges down the wing and a couple of decent crosses. Then on the 20 minute mark, Agyei went on a lively run, beating two defenders and having his shot well saved by the Rovers’ keeper.
Leahy was booked shortly after for pulling down a forward on a rare Bristol attack……and that was it until half-time.
The away team started the second half with more urgency and one of their attacks saw Roberts almost put the ball into his own net. Walsall then responded with a great double chance - an Edwards shot and a Morris header, but all to no avail.
On the hour, Jackson came on for the injured Agyei and Walsall pressed for a precious goal. Edwards had a great shot superbly saved by Smith in the away goal and Ismail was looking dangerous again,
As the game headed into the last few minutes, Rovers suddenly had a chance as Roberts miskicked but Gillespie produced a wonder save to earn his side a share of the points.
In the press conference, JW admitted the game had been a bit of a chess match but said he couldn’t see us losing the match. He also pointed out that several of his players are coming to the end of their loan periods…new faces, maybe?
It’s Rotherham at home up next, followed by a long trip to Plymouth on New Years’ Day (which I’ve persuaded my dad to take me to!) UTS!!