You just never know what to expect from Walsall.Last Saturday we witnessed a shocking performance against Bristol Rovers.Tuesday saw a comfortable win over Brighton.Today saw a hard fought and determined effort at Leyton Orient in which Saddlers secured three points in the warm sunshine that sent the travelling fans home in a happy mood.
Walsall were forced into making a change from Tuesday's line up with Chris Palmer returning to the fold.Rhys Weston and Manny Smith lined up in the heart of the defence with Anthony Gerrard out. Dwayne Mattis was named captain.
In the third minute Troy Deeney had the confidence to try and have a pot from 25 yards however his effort was on the rise but it was good to see the player so positive.Deeney again tried his luck on 14 minutes but his header lacked any power and was easily saved.
Walsall's defence were looking far from confident early on and a weak header from Chris Palmer almost resulted in letting the hosts in but fortunately Church wasted the invitation.
Walsall finally got going and on 23 minutes Zaaboub forced Orient's keeper Jones into action with a curling shot which he was happy to tip over for a corner.The lively Demertriou was causing Walsall a few problems. Mark Bradley had to have repairs done to his head following an accidental clash and returned with a large bandage. Zaaboub was causing Orient problems down the wing and Jabo Ibehre was denied a chance but Walsall made the vital breakthrough just before half time.
Palmer and Deeney linked well and Bradley slipped through and from about 15 yards out powered home.A bizarre goal celebration followed which resembled something like a rugby scrum.
The second half saw Walsall soaking up pressure and Clayton Ince had to be alert on a few occassions, making a couple of great saves, one with his legs.Manny Smith came more into his own and everyone played their part in a thou shall not pass stance to preserve the lead.
Jabo was caught offside a couple of times and as usual worked hard without ever really looking like scoring against his former club. He was eventually substituted and got a good hand from both sets of supporters.
Alex Nicholls was also withdrawn and Richard Taundry and Robin Shroot joined the action.The five minutes time added on didn't affect things and Walsall's players went off to a terrific reception from their fans who enjoyed the way they protected the lead and didn't concede late on as they have been guilty of so many times this season.