Walsall extended their unbeaten start to the League Two season to eight matches with a last-gasp equaliser at Tranmere Rovers. Reece Smith struck in the 90th minute to salvage a 1-1 draw, a result that keeps the Saddlers fifth in the table on 14 points.
Manager Lee Grant was blunt in his assessment of the performance, even as he praised the team's spirit. "Well, if you play rubbish and you get a point away from home then yes I’m happy," he told reporters. The character of this group is shining through loud and clear.
Jed Ward was the hero in the Walsall goal, making a string of vital saves. He denied Charlie Whitaker early on and later kept out a fizzed drive from Tom Ince. His most important contribution came just after the hour mark, diving to his right to save a penalty from Tranmere's Joe Ironside.
Despite Ward's efforts, the hosts took the lead in the 73rd minute. Will Vaulks delivered a corner and Bobby Faulkner powered a header into the net. Walsall struggled to create clear chances in response, with Aaron Pressley missing a close-range opportunity.
But the visitors refused to give up. In the final minute of normal time, a move involving Harrison Male found its way to Smith, who fired home to spark celebrations among the travelling fans. The point means Walsall remain firmly in the promotion hunt, just one point behind leaders Barnet with a goal difference of plus six.
Grant acknowledged his side had fallen below their usual level but was delighted with the resilience shown. The result continues a solid run of form, with the team's last five outings yielding a win, three draws and a single defeat. Attention now turns to a home fixture against Crawley Town this Saturday.
The original report is at Iconic Media
