Walsall fans don’t care if it is by hook or by crook, but they want to be in the Third Round draw of the FA Cup.
The competition may be seen by some of the bigger clubs as inconvenient in the early rounds, but for clubs like Walsall, it can make a huge difference.
A lucrative tie is potentially on offer if the Saddlers can make it into the draw, but there is a Swindon side in their way, and they will be wanting it just as much as.
Swindon Town
Swindon have well and truly left their disruptive pre-season behind and are giving an instant return to League One a strong attempt.
Sitting fourth in the league, with only three defeats, Swindon are tough to beat, with Port Vale, Bradford and a blip against Carlisle the only time they’ve walked away without a point.
This is highlighted by the fact they have only conceded 18 goals. The defence is very settled, and young too, which is a promising sign for Swindon fans.
Going forward, Swindon have threats from Jack Payne, Tyrece Simpson and Harry McKirdy who have a combined 22 goals in all competitions.
McKirdy will be a player to watch should he start, with his natural ability and creative flair. After a mixed couple of seasons, he seems to have found a home with Swindon.
Manager Ben Garner joined in the summer following a disastrous spell with Bristol Rovers. He has started brightly and assembled a team that look like they can trouble the play-off’s. He will hope they are a side that can go progress in the FA Cup.
Walsall
The Saddlers have found themselves in a bit of rut since the victory over Port Vale. Defeats to Carlisle and Cambridge have dampened the mood, especially given the chances against Cambridge, and nature of the goals conceded.
The FA Cup is a competition Matt Taylor is taking seriously, and as it is the Saddlers last remaining cup too, he will be desperate for victory.
The phrase ‘a welcome distraction from the league’, is used a lot, and it does not apply to the Saddlers.
It is highly likely the Saddlers are set for a mid table finish, so the FA Cup is the perfect chance to give the supporters a big day out should they reach the third round.
The team is struggling for goals, with only four scored in their last eight in all competitions. This has also coincided with George Miller being starved of good service.
Getting the ball to Miller in good opportunities will result in goals, which has been seen already this season. However the likes of Wilkinson, Osadebe and others need to start chipping in with goals too.
FA Cup Third Round the dream
Both sides want a big third round tie, as do every team who enter the FA Cup.
Good away days, playing teams that are unfamiliar opponents and the chance of a scalp is exactly what this cup is all about, and it is why it is globally loved.
Swindon have got form on their side, but on their day, Walsall can beat anyone in League Two.
It will be a hard fought tie, and with Swindon packing out the away end, a loud one too. So make sure to get down and back the Saddlers.
