Walsall manager Lee Grant has praised his squad following a hard-fought 3-2 home victory over Accrington Stanley. The win at the Poundland Bescot Stadium on Saturday maintained the Saddlers' unbeaten start to the League Two campaign.
What did Lee Grant say about the performance?
Speaking to the media, including Express & Star reporter George Bennett, Grant was clear about his feelings. He told Bescot Banter he was "really proud of the group" for their efforts in a chaotic match. Grant described the game as one that typified the division, with plenty of goals, physicality, and running.
He highlighted the team's desire to attack and score goals, even against a physical opponent like Accrington. The manager pointed to his players' calmness in key moments and their creation of numerous opportunities. Grant also acknowledged the defensive challenges posed by the visitors' style of play.
How did the match unfold?
According to a match recap from VAVEL, Walsall took an early lead through Reece Smith in the eighth minute. Smith scored his first goal for the club by following up on a saved effort from Aaron Pressley. The visitors responded quickly, with Josh Woods equalizing just four minutes later after a spilled free-kick.
Walsall regained the lead deep into first-half stoppage time through a looping header from Harrison Burke. Aaron Pressley then extended the advantage with his third goal in three games, connecting with a deep cross from Smith. Accrington substitute Stefan Mols pulled a goal back late on, but Walsall's defense held firm to secure the points.
Where does this leave Walsall in the context of last season?
The victory provides a positive start as the club builds on a 13th-place finish in the 2025 League Two table. Last term, Walsall accumulated 65 points from 46 games, with a record of 18 wins, 11 draws, and 17 losses. Their final run of form was mixed, ending with two losses, a win, and two more losses.
That final position left them 22 points behind champions Bromley. The club's overall goal difference last season was exactly zero, having scored and conceded 56 goals each. You can review the full historical standings for more context on the club's recent trajectory.
What is the immediate focus for the squad?
Attention now turns to maintaining this positive momentum. The team's attacking intent, highlighted by Grant, will be key as they face a busy schedule. Fans can track the upcoming challenges on the club's official fixtures list.
Integrating performances like this into a consistent pattern is the next challenge. The early signs are promising for a squad looking to improve on last season's mid-table finish. The win provides a solid foundation at their home ground as they prepare for the next test.
