We look ahead to tomorrows League 1 match between Walsall and Hartlepool.
The two worst form sides meet this Saturday in a game that really could be ‘do or die’.
Hartlepool equalled a club record 18 games without a win, whereas Walsall are searching for our first win in 13.
It could be a cracker!
Vital Quotes:
Walsall Team News:
Walsall will be without Flo Cuvelier and Jimmy Walker as both are still injured.
Skipper Andy Butler returns from his one match suspension.
Craig Westcarr is included in the squad following his loan move from Chesterfield yesterday.
Player to watch: Will Grigg
Grigg is currently the best player in a Walsall shirt and some would say that despite his lack of goals it is his best few months as a Saddler. His work rate is second to none.
IF he can find his goalscoring boots we will have a real gem of a striker – but thats a big IF.
Hartlepool Team News:
Hartlepool are without defender Neil Austin after his dismissal against Oldham resulted in a four-match ban.
Jack Baldwin could replace Austin at right-back, although Jordan Richards is also in the frame.
Goalkeeper Adam McHugh will hope to shrug off an ankle injury in time to take his place on the bench but youngster Mark Foden will again be on standby
Player to watch: Anthony Sweeney
I hope that Jeff Stelling doesnt start bobbing around on Soccer Saturday because that can mean only one thing – that this man had scored!
Sweeney is a player I actually like watching. Whenever we have faced Hartlepool he is the one player I wished we had. His creativity and eye for goal is still dangerous even in a team struggling.
Match Facts & Stats
Walsall have won 6 out of the last 8 home games v Hartlepool.
Our last meeting was a lacklustre 0-0 draw in March.
Ref Watch:
The man in the middle is Mr Ian Williamson from Berkshire.
In 12 games Mr Williamson has handed out 40 yellow cards, 2 red and 1 penalty.
Match Prediction:
The table doesnt lie. Hartlepool are currently the worst side in League 1. Thats no disrepect to Hartlepool but we have to beat them, no other result would be acceptable.
Next Fixtures:
8/12/12 – HARTLEPOOL v Stevenage
8/12/12 – Coventry v WALSALL
