10 man Deja vu for Saddlers in defeat

Walsall were reduced to 10 men on Tuesday night for the 3rd time in 4 games, this time in a 3-0 defeat at Roots Hall.

The Saddlers could not hold it together with 10 men, as 23rd placed Southend fought for their life in league one.

Southend went ahead on the 19th minute, after Moussa drove an unstoppable shot past Gilmartin. The well taken goal is a testament to the battling Shrimpers.

Clayton Mc Donald left the field after a violent challenge on Moussa on 36 minutes.Josh O Keefe was subbed as a result, as Manny Smith came on to fill the hole left by the 6ft 4 defender.

On 44 minutes Matthew Richards missed the goal by a whisker, as his blinding free kick hit the bar. The defender was replaced by Peter Till at half time as he struggled with an ankle injury.

Walsall could not find their feet with one man down, and Southend took full advantage. They found the net again on 51 minutes, the goal headed in by Scott Spencer. Hard working Moussa made it 3 in the dying minutes when he picked up a pass from Simon Francis, firing the ball past Gilmartin.

Taundry and Vincent both stayed strong in an effort to keep the game afloat, but Southend showed every inch of their relegation battle.

Walsall must come out all guns blazing on Saturday, as they make the long trip to Exeter. Consistency is the key, and they must re-find the sparkle we know they are capable of.