Mat Sadler is of the opinion that Walsall’s recent 3-1 victory against Bradford City at Valley Parade serves as proof of their ability to influence matches.
The scoring began when Andy Cook converted a penalty in the 22nd minute, following a foul on Rayhaan Tulloch that, despite appearing to be outside the box, was awarded.
Nevertheless, Liam Gordon equalized just three minutes later, and Aramide Oteh put Walsall in the lead before half-time. In the second half, Freddie Draper added a third goal, and Sadler expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance.
Sadler commented, “It was a commendable away performance. What I hope it will do is provide the players with concrete evidence and genuine belief in their capabilities and how they can influence matches.”
He continued, “Apart from what I felt was a questionable penalty due to its location outside the box, I believe we were in control for the most part throughout the game.”
“Our excellent defensive play during crucial moments and our repeated successful counterattacks were highlights. Overall, it was a remarkable away performance, and we fully deserved the victory.”
This victory halted a streak of consecutive defeats, and Walsall has now won two out of three away matches after failing to win any of their previous 15 away league matches.
Freddie Draper, who scored his fourth goal of the season, left the field due to injury in the final 15 minutes. Sadler expressed optimism that Draper’s injury isn’t serious but couldn’t confirm his availability for the upcoming Tuesday match, given the quick turnaround.
“We detected the injury early, so it should be manageable. However, we need to be cautious with Freddie, as we have high expectations for such a young player,” Sadler revealed. “Hopefully, he’ll be fit for Tuesday, but I haven’t had a chance to speak to him yet.”
Harry Williams impressed defensively by neutralizing the threat posed by Andy Cook, while Ross Tierney contributed with two assists in an outstanding individual performance.
Sadler also praised club captain Donervon Daniels, saying, “I had a conversation with him before the game and during the week leading up to it, asking him if he believed in himself.”
“I’m delighted that he demonstrated the potential of being a fantastic center-back. I thought he and Donervon both performed superbly today.”
“Donervon is our inspirational captain and the backbone of the team. With Harry alongside him today, they were both brilliant.”
“Ross was involved in every aspect of the game. He disrupts opponents, intercepts passes, and is a real nuisance to play against.”
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