Walsall’s crucial 2-0 win over Chesterfield in the first leg of their League Two play-off. This aggregate win puts them in a favorable position as they head into the all-important second leg. Chesterfield had markedly superior home ground so was able to host the match at Chesterfield’s home stadium. Walsall proved their determination and technical ability as they overcame a late season malaise that had seen them slide down the league table from automatic promotion space.
Walsall, who finished fourth in League Two, had been 12 points clear at the top earlier in the season but faltered dramatically in the latter half. Bradford City very nearly destroyed their aspirations for automatic promotion. They scored in the dying seconds of the season and knocked them out. Following this disappointment Walsall entered the play-offs with every hope and ambition to regain their form and pick themselves up.
Key Moments from the First Leg
The game had two contrasting incidents that summed up Walsall’s display. The first goal came from Alfie Chang, who fired in from the edge of the box after a well-placed low ball from Liam Gordon. This intention was painfully evident by the way this goal dictated Walsall’s entire offensive gameplan.
Just minutes later, Walsall were gifted a penalty of their own when Chesterfield’s Liam Mandeville fouled Saddlers’ defender Liam Gordon inside the box. Taylor Allen stepped up to take the penalty, confidently sending Chesterfield’s goalkeeper Ryan Boot the wrong way to double Walsall’s lead. These initial strikes would be key in helping Walsall assert their dominance over the match.
“We’re pleased to be ahead, but it means nothing yet. We’re halfway through the tie. We rest, recover and go again.” – Mat Sadler
Response from Coaches
After the game, each coach discussed his team’s performance. Walsall’s manager, Mat Sadler, expressed satisfaction with his team’s effort but emphasized the need for continued hard work as they prepare for the upcoming second leg.
“I just said to the players that it was a good performance and we’re pleased, but now we’ve got to go and work even harder on Friday.” – Mat Sadler
Chesterfield’s coach, Paul Cook, acknowledged Walsall’s strong showing while maintaining belief in his team’s potential. He said they would not let the defeat stop them, but would regroup and move on to face the challenges in front of them.
“You have to say well done to Walsall, they’ll come away thinking it’s a very good performance.” – Paul Cook
Looking Ahead to the Second Leg
Don’t miss the second leg of this important east coast derby, Friday night! The match starts at 8 PM and will be broadcast on Sky Sports Football. Each side is acutely aware that the next goal is likely to be the one that proves decisive across the two-leg play-off tie.
Paul Cook highlighted the importance of scoring first in the next match:
“The next goal is massive. If we can score the next goal we’re right back in it.” – Paul Cook
Walsall prepare to return to protect their lead. They will need to remain disciplined and tough-minded to earn their place in the conference semifinals.
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