LAST weekend's game at Accrington Stanley once again proved what a good squad I have at my disposal as we went into a tough fixture without some key players yet still managed to grind out a win.

It further emphasised the value of the group of players that we have here and I would say that there are around 16 players who deserve to be in the starting line-up.

The lads displayed outstanding character and a never-say-die attitude to overcome the conditions and secure the victory. It was in many ways a typical away performance from us where we looked comfortable at times and not so comfortable on occasions, but that is to be expected on our travels.

Having taken the lead shortly before half-time, I thought that we began the second period well and with a new injection of energy. Even when Accrington got back on levels terms with time running out, we refused to let our heads drop and looked to win the game rather than settle for a point.

The role that our travelling support had in this should also not be underestimated. To take over 1,200 people was fantastic and the backing that they gave the players from start to finish was a real boost to everyone involved.

Thankfully we were able to give them a winning result in the end and having had our biggest crowd of the season for the Wycombe game a fortnight ago, I will be looking for more of the same on Saturday when we play host to another side who have started the season well.

Make no mistake, MK Dons have some very good players and in Martin Allen they have a manager who sets high standards and wears his heart on his sleeve.

Despite losing at home to Hereford United seven days ago, they have made a solid start to the season and, like ourselves, will be looking to make an immediate return to League One.

Our performances on home soil so far this season have seen us set some very high standards and we are going to have to live up to them if we are to be successful come the final whistle on Saturday. As ever, it is going to take a team effort with both players and supporters alike pulling in the same direction.

This weekeend is our designated Kick It Out 'Week Of Action' game where we embrace the 'One Game One Community' theme and show people that here at Walsall FC we are constantly striving to reach out into the local community and welcome all cultures.

As a club we recognise that we have an important role to play in bringing the local community together and we are keen to support the work of organisations such as Kick It Out who do so much good for the game and society in general.

RICHARD MONEY