How typical of Walsall that,against all odds and with their best player out injured,they go and beat high-flying Preston North End with a solid, inspired performance after going eight games in all competitions without a win. Striker Jon Macken, who had five great years at Deepdale was again missing with hamstring problems but he was hardly missed.
It took just ten minutes for Walsall to score from a wonderful move in which Kevan Hurst srayed a fine defence-splitting pass for Alex Nicholls to latch onto, cut inside and drill home to silence the 1,000 plus North End fans behind that goal.
Saddlers were so strong at the back with centre backs Andy Butler and Manny Smith outstanding. All the team played their part and played as a unit. Adam Chambers ran the midfield and looked like adding to their score.
The only blot was the sending off of on-loan winger David Martin but the ten men never gave up and were well worthy of this win and there is hope now of a recovery.
