Walsall secured a 3-0 victory over Gillingham in their League Two opener, with five players earning an 8 rating. The Saddlers’ defence was solid, while the attack delivered three goals from James Connolly, Aaron Pressley and Isaac Moore.
Opening Day
The match saw Walsall dominate the first half, with James Connolly scoring the first goal and Aaron Pressley adding a second. Isaac Moore, introduced as a substitute, netted the third, completing a clean-sheet win.
Player Ratings
- Jed Ward - 8 for a clean sheet and strong saves.
- Elicha Ahui - 7 for energy on his league debut, withdrawn at half-time after a booking.
- Declan Skura - 8 for commanding aerial presence and mobility.
- James Connolly - 7 as captain and first-goal scorer.
- Mason Hancock - 6, forced off with a knock.
- Sven Sprangler - 8 for tireless coverage and challenges.
- Charlie Crew - 6, overcomplicated play.
- Lewis Simper - 6, flashes but inconsistent.
- Andrew Dallas - 6, limited threat.
- Reece Smith - 8 for excitement and beating defenders.
- Aaron Pressley - 7 for perseverance and late goal.
Substitutes
- Roman Dixon - 7, debuted at right-back, finished on left.
- Courtney Clarke - 8, electrifying pace and cross for Pressley.
- Isaac Moore - 7, drove forward and scored his first EFL goal.
- Tai Sodje - 7, pace around Pressley, almost scored.
- Adapted - 7, filled right-back after Hancock’s knock.
