Walsall have kept their goal untouched through the first three games of the League Two season. The Saddlers played out a 0-0 draw with Grimsby Town on Saturday afternoon to preserve a perfect defensive record.
Mat Sadler's side created the better openings in a physical contest at the Poundland Bescot Stadium. Courtney Clarke fired over from an Aaron Pressley lay-off after 16 minutes, and Charles Vernam blazed high following good work from Andy Cook. The hosts increased the pressure after the break, with Clarke forcing Grimsby keeper Christy Pym into a chest-high save.
Grimsby threat grows
The visitors grew into the game as it progressed. Justin Amaluzor was brought down by James Connolly, who received a yellow card, on a promising break. Jayden Sweeney then forced a strong save from Walsall goalkeeper Jed Ward with a driven effort from the edge of the box 13 minutes from time.
Walsall's defensive organisation was key, with centre-backs Declan Skura and James Connolly largely handling the aerial threat. Grimsby's central defenders, Maldini Kacurri and Cameron McJannet, were equally effective in snuffing out Walsall's attacks from set-pieces.
The point leaves Walsall with five points from their opening three matches. The result continues a solid start built on defensive resilience, a foundation they will look to build on in their next fixture.
