Walsall's Harrison Burke Recalls Thrilling Match-Winner Against Aston Villa
Walsall defender Harrison Burke has spoken about his match-winning goal against Aston Villa in a pre-season friendly last summer. The Saddlers are now gearing up for their League Two campaign, currently sitting 13th with 65 points from 46 games, 22 points behind leaders Bromley.
What happened?
Burke scored the match-winner when Aston Villa last visited Bescot in pre-season last summer. The Saddlers continued their pre-season preparations with a 4-2 victory over Nottingham Forest under-21s in a behind-closed-doors friendly. Summer signing Andrew Dallas bagged a brace, while Aaron Pressley and academy prospect Ryan Sjordesma also got on the score sheet.
Why it matters for Walsall
Burke has explained how the test against Villa will offer a completely different challenge, as they look to master a variety of sides to their game ahead of the new season. 'Pre-season games are what they are. The Villa players probably won't remember it, but it'll stay with me forever,' Burke said.
What comes next?
The Saddlers will host Aston Villa in their pre-season friendly under the lights at Bescot. Lee Grant guided the team to a goalless draw at Leamington in their first outing in front of the supporters and has added further 60-minute clashes against Birmingham City under-21s and Nottingham Forest under-21s. Tai Sodje was involved in the latter as he made his debut following his arrival from National League North side Buxton last week.
Burke has been impressed by the early signs under the new head coach and is excited to see where his ideas take them. 'It's been excellent. I've been extremely impressed,' Burke continued. 'There has been so much detail, so much information, and the lads are just completely buying into it.'
The Saddlers will need to be more consistent, Burke admits, as they look to showcase their qualities in every game. 'There's a lot of confidence within the group, and there are still things we really need to improve on,' Burke added. 'The way we set-up at times is excellent, the way we work our throw-ins, set pieces, and off-the-ball. But we just need to be more consistent because I think complacency can set in.'
