Walsall have a big opportunity this weekend to get back on track, and start pushing up the league. Salford are the visitors this weekend, and despite their financial backing, they have had a stuttering start to the season.
Salford City
In the build up to the League Two season starting in August, Salford were the favourites across the board, however so far, they have struggled to live up to that pre-season hype. They are sitting six places above the Saddlers, however there is only a three point gap that separates them, which has come in the form of just one extra win. Both sides have score 11 goals in the league this season, but Salford have a tighter defence.
Salford struggled to hit the ground running, picking up just four points in their first five games. Things have started getting better, with the team increasing that return to seven points in the last five games. The increase in form showed in their last league match, where they beat Colchester in their first away win of the season.
Salford may be without two of their key attacking players. Brandon Thomas-Asante will be missing through suspension, and Ian Henderson has been out with injury recently, and may not feature. Despite that, Salford have quality throughout the pitch. In central midfield, Matty Lund and Jason Lowe will be looking to run the show. Both are vastly experienced at this level and will be wanting to help push The Ammies up the league.
Walsall
The Saddlers earnt a well fought point on the road at Exeter last week, and looked much better in comparison to the previous two defeats. A midweek penalty win against fellow League Two Northampton will also give the side a boost as they look to return to winning ways. Walsall have picked up seven of their nine points at home this season, however this should have been higher if it wasn’t for late drama against Bristol Rovers and Scunthorpe.
Walsall are starting to slowly improve under Matt Taylor, however both boxes remain an issues. The defence have conceded sloppy goals, with crosses, set-pieces and the number of penalties gifted a big issue. This wouldn’t be such a concern if they were converting chances at the other end of the pitch. The Saddlers are creating chances in every match, and good ones too.
George Miller bagged a brace last weekend and will be full of confidence, as will Emmanuel Osadebe, who scored against Northampton and put in a fine display. One player who won’t be featuring is Carl Rushworth who remains with the England-21 setup. However keeper Jack Rose will be ready to step in after a brilliant display mid-week.
