Today is the day that many Walsall fans have been waiting for since the fixtures were announced a few months ago.
Walsall vs Port Vale has always been a much anticipated fixture, but with Darrell Clarke leaving, and then talking about the club after leaving, makes the stakes of this even higher.
Port Vale have grown under Clarke, and find themselves in the automatic promotion places, something that was hoped for of his time at Walsall.
Port Vale
Third in League Two and one of the highest scorers in the league. It is a season that Vale have threatened for many years, and is now being delivered.
In a recent interview with Henry Winter, Clarke spoke about the transfer policy at Walsall, and when he moved, mentioned the resources available to him at Port Vale.
This is what caused a lot of the disappointment and ill-feeling from Walsall fans, and what adds fuel to the match tonight.
Vale come into the game after a disappointing result against Oldham, but before this they had been on an impressive seven game unbeaten run.
Goals have not been an issue, with 30 in the League, eight in the trophy, and a 5-1 win against Accrington in the FA Cup, proving that attack is the best form of defence for the Valiants.
Jamie Proctor and James Wilson have been leading the line well, however both will be missing through injury. Knowing Clarke as Walsall fans do, he will have depth in the squad to counter this.
Walsall
The Saddlers responded to a disappointing defeat to Harrogate with a 0-0 draw against Rochdale. A clean sheet is never a bad thing, but the lack of chances was a worry.
George Miller has been limited in recent matches, and this has been felt in the team with the lack of goals. With players like Wilkinson and Khan coming into the side, it offers much more depth, but at the moment, the perfect line up has not been found going forward.
Joss Labadie will be key in the middle of the park as Walsall look to control the midfield. If they can do this, then it will certainly help the attacking prospects.
Hayden White is likely to return at right-back which will strengthen the defence. White has impressed this season, and will be fresh after not playing at the weekend.
Finally, the fans deserve huge praise for their effort. Over 1500 tickets have been sold with more expected on the door tonight too. Matt Taylor knows how important this game is, now it is time to see whether the team can up their standard when the pressure is on.
Featured Image – Reuters
