Walsall might have struggled against mediocre opposition this season but on Saturday Colin Lee's side knocked Wigan Athletic off the top of the table with a 2-0 win. Saddlers have taken 6 points this week and find themselves well placed in 14th position in the league. One change was made from the side that beat Reading in mid-week as Paul Merson returned but for once it was another midfielder making the headlines as Darren Wrack scored 2 goals, although Wigan had the best of the first period as both sides struggled in poor conditions. Wigan's attack caused the Saddlers defence numerous problems but failed to make any clear cut chances until Geoff Horsfield's shot was tipped round the post by Jimmy Walker and both Horsfield and his strike partner Nathan Ellington failed to hit the target from close range. Walsall had defended well in the first-half but had some decent chances too. Chris Baird fired straight at goalkeeper Filan and Osborn shot just over the crossbar from distance. Wigan started the second-half well and McCulloch's header forced Walker into a great save from a cross but Walsall snatched the lead before the hour. Wrack broke into the Wigan half and played the ball to Merson who laid it back into his path. Wrack kept his cool and slotted home. Walsall started to play with more confidence as the conditions improved and weren't going to sit on their lead. Gary Birch appeared to have doubled the lead when he fired home but he was offside, but minutes later Wrack again popped-up in the area and this time he connected with Baird's cross at the back post and again he managed to slot the ball into the back of the net. Walsall suffered a set-back when Roper limped-off injured but suprisingly Wigan replaced both their attackers and Roberts and Teale failed to cause the Saddlers defence too much trouble and Jorge Leitao could have made it three only to shoot at Filan after a good run into the area. Wigan were forced to shoot from distance and although Walker had to make one good save, Wigan never looked like taking anything from the game, and Saddlers have the chance to frustrate another promotion chasing side next weekend when Norwich visit Bescot Stadium. |