So far this season, Walsall have not won a match on the road. In their five away games so far, the Saddlers have only managed to pick up two points. This is something that Matt Taylor will certainly want to change, especially off the back of a good win against Salford City. However, the weekends opposition have started the season well, and their home form has been very impressive.
Leyton Orient
Orient have picked up 10 points from a possible 15 at home this season. That type of form has seen them rise up the table, where they currently sit in 6th. Like Walsall, the O’s had a big turnover in the summer, on the pitch and off it. Manager Kenny Jackett has used his vast experience to bring together a squad that has hit the ground running.
Goals have not been a problem for Orient this season, who have scored 19 goals in League Two this season. That return ranks them third in the league for goals scored. Defensively, Orient have only conceded 11 goals, which, coupled with the sheer volume of goals they score, shows exactly why they are in the play-off’s.
Orient are, however, without a win in three league games. Draws against Barrow and Mansfield either side of loss at Port Vale, means their last win came against Bristol Rovers on September 18th. Kenny Jackett will want a return to winning ways, so the Saddlers should expect a tough match against an opposition who will be strong in attack, and not likely to gift many chances.
Walsall
The Saddlers come into the match searching for their first away win of the season. A last gasp winner from ex-Orient players Conor Wilkinson meant a much needed three points stayed in WS1. That boost will be what Matt Taylor will have wanted from his team as they head into a very important few matches. Orient will be no mean feat, but any kind of result will give the Saddlers a real belief in the league.
Wilkinson scored Walsall’s 13th goal of the season, which compared to recent seasons, shows that Taylor has found a way for a team to find the net. 13 goals is their best return since being relegated into League Two, however their 16 goals conceded is also higher too.
Walsall are going to have their work cut out defensively, with Orient looking particularly strong from set-pieces. Being put to the test will see the Saddlers sink or swim. The frailty from corners, free-kicks and crosses will be exploited against. However, successfully limit Orient, and there will be the belief that they can do it against anyone.
