Preston North End v Walsall: Match report

The Saddlers ran out at Deepdale full of hope and confidence following a recent couple of wins and hoping to continue the form.

Walsall lined up with two changes, Macken replacing Alex Nicholls and Chambers replaced by Anton Peterlin.

The Saddlers started well, with Jamie Paterson and Jon Macken both having early chances.

It was seven minutes before Preston saw a chance which was an effort headed over by Chris Holroyd.

The impressive Flo Cuvelier and Paterson linked well together but both missed there chances soon after.

Eighteen minutes in there was a lengthy delay in play as, Richard Taundry challenged Preston lad Adam Barton which saw a nasty looking injury sustained for the youngster.

After a delay of twelve minutes the game continued, with Walsall pushing for goals with Butler, Paterson and Macken coming close once again.

A penalty shout for the home side involving Andy Butler was waved away by the referee.

Flo Cuvelier had probably the best chance of the game just into the second half with Macken playing him through, Cuvelier beat the defender but put his shot just wide.

ill Grigg replaced by Alex Nicholls.

A spell of Preston possession ended with David Grof saving well, and a Cuvelier booking for which the resulting free kick flew harmlessly over.

Jamie Paterson saw a deflected drive rattle the Preston crossbar as The Saddlers pushed hard.

George Bowerman was brought on to replace Kevan Hurst and not long after Lee Beevers replaced Jon Macken.

Walsall could have nicked it right at the death with a long range Lee Beevers curling effort heading towards the top corner but the Preston 'keeper pulling out a great save to ensure both teams shared the points.

A great result, one which no doubt any Saddler would have taken before the game, but with hindsight it was a winnable game.

That is taking nothing away from the lads who earned a third clean sheet in a row.



Vital Walsall on:

Vital Walsall on:

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