A delighted Dean Keates heaped praise on his players after the Saddlers’ “deserved” FA Cup second-round replay win at Sunderland.
Liam Kinsella’s superb second-half strike secured a 1-0 success at the Stadium of the Light – and a third-round trip to Championship side Bolton.
“We’re delighted,” said Keates. “It’s something we deserved, definitely.
“Without the ball, we were organised and disciplined. We broke and there were some phases of play where we kept the ball and dominated possession.
“Over the three games, there’s not been much between both teams.
“We were disappointed we didn’t go in one or two up after the first half. In the second half we didn’t have too many chances but it was very much a football match, both teams trying to play.
“It was a great goal from Kins – he’s been outstanding since he came in. He’s taken his opportunity and that capped it all off - a great 25-yard strike.
“We got what we deserved and that’s a cup win and a game now at Bolton.”