WALSALL 2 CARLISLE UNITED 3 - 18/8/2007

THE SADDLERS' youth team started their Puma Youth Alliance campaign with a disappointing home defeat at the hands of Carlisle United.

Alan Wilkes' brace was not enough to give Mick Halsall's side any points reward in a game that also saw goalkeeper, Joel Skeldon pick up a fractured wrist that is likely to keep him out of action for some time.

WALSALL: Skeldon (Cox), Westlake, Ryan, Brookes, T. Schwarz, R. Davies, Hendrie (Adkins), Bentley, Curtis, Wilkes, Jones (Silver). Subs not used: Reid, Howes.

TRANMERE ROVERS 3 WALSALL 3 - 1/9/2007

THE SADDLERS shared the spoils in a 3-3 draw at Tranmere Rovers as Alan Wilkes claimed a hat-trick.

Mick Halsall's side took the lead but twice had to come from behind to claim our first point of the campaign. "We are still not playing to the level that I feel we should be," said Halsall after the game. "We are making too many mistakes in defensive areas and we are not moving the ball as quickly as we should be in order to get our continuity going.

"At this early stage of the season we have to rely upon the second-year lads to show the new boys how to go about things, but at the moment most of the second years are finding it hard to cope with the demands.

"This is disappointing, particularly after all the hard work we put into them last year.

"The one pleasing aspect to come out of this game was the quality of Alan Wilkes in front of goal as he added to the two goals that he scored in our previous League games with three more.

"We can't afford to rely on him too much and have to improve as a team. We need a solid base on which to build and Bill and I will be working hard to achieve this in the weeks ahead."

WALSALL: Kitteridge, Silver, D. Schwarz, T. Schwarz, Bacchus, Bentley (Craddock), Jones (Hendrie), R. Davies, Wilkes, Curtis (Howes), Ryan. Subs not used: Westlake, Brookes.

WREXHAM 1 WALSALL 0 - 8/9/2007

THE YOUNG Saddlers slipped to a narrow single-goal defeat in a hard-fought encounter with Wrexham.

"We knew that it was going to be tight and a real battle for us," said Head of Youth, Mick Halsall. "They looked well-organised defensively and there was always going to be just one goal in it.

"Neither side created many clear-cut chances; Alan Wilkes had a couple of half-chances, whilst Wrexham's goal came as a result of a counter-attack.

"As a group we are finding it difficult right now. We are not posing enough of a threat up front and as a result we are always likely to give the opposition one opportunity, which we are being punished for at the moment.

"Last season we had two or three players who looked like scoring, this time around we are too rellient upon Alan Wilkes.

"We will keep going and strive to find a winning formula. If things don't improve then we will look to get the first-year boys more involved.

"Even at this early stage of the season it is all about producing players and for them to show us that they are capable of making the step up into the reserves."

WALSALL: Kitteridge, Silver, D. Schwarz, T. Schwarz, Bacchus, Hendrie (Craddock), R. Davies, Bentley, Ryan (Jones), Wilkes, Howes (Curtis). Subs not used: Westlake, Brookes.

CHASETOWN 0 WALSALL 5 (MIDLAND YOUTH CUP FIRST ROUND) - 10/9/2007

THE SADDLERS' youngsters made convincing progress into the second round of the Midland Youth Cup with a 5-0 victory at Chasetown.

Two goals apiece from Josh Craddock and Edward Ryan plus a Cameron Jones effort gave Mick Halsall's side victory as we set out to defend the Midland Youth Cup trophy which we won last season. "It was a solid performance, without getting too carried away," said Halsall. "It was important for us to get the victory under our belt and we changed our system to see if we could create more opportunities.

"It took a while for us to get into our stride, but in the end it was pleasing to keep a clean sheet and score five goals.

"We know that there is still plenty for us to work on and the players know that they have to perform consistently or else they will lose their place.

"It's important that we work hard, do our job properly and get understanding in order for us to move forward."

WALSALL: Cox, Silver, Bacchus, D. Schwarz, T. Schwarz, Bentley, Hendrie (Jones), R. Davies, Wilkes (Howes), Craddock (Adkins), Ryan. Subs not used: Curtis, Brookes.

The Saddlers face an away trip to either Hereford United or Burton Albion in the next round.

WALSALL 4 STOCKPORT COUNTY 2 - 15/9/2007

THE SADDLERS' youth team chalked up an impressive 4-2 victory over Stockport County.

"We found ourselves two goals up during the first half courtesy of two good strikes from Josh Craddock, but conceded a goal soon after our second," said Head of Youth Mick Halsall. "At half-time I knew that there were going to be more goals to come and to their credit, Stockport started the second period very brightly to get back on level terms.

"We responded well to the set-back and started to press once more. That said, our 'keeper, Ross Kitteridge had to make a couple of important saves as our visitors caught us on the break.

"We eventually got our noses back in front thanks to a 20-yarder from Edward Ryan and then a neat through-ball from Richard Davies put substitute, Sam Adkins through to seal the game.

"Our boys showed a lot of character against a good Stockport side; hopefully we will be able to build upon the confidence that we have gained from the win and go from strength to strength."

WALSALL: Kitteridge, Westlake, T. Schwarz, D. Schwarz, Bacchus, Jones (Hendrie), R. Davies, Bentley, Ryan, Craddock (Adkins), Wilkes (Curtis). Subs not used: Howe, Lowe.

WIGAN ATHLETIC 1 WALSALL 2 - 22/9/2007

THE YOUNG Saddlers ran out worthy winners at Wigan Athletic as a Rory Curtis brace gave us a 2-1 win.

"We started the game well and grabbed an early goal," said Head of Youth, Mick Halsall. "It came as a result of some inventive work by Cameron Jones who took a quick free-kick which Rory Curtis latched onto and finished well.

"We remained in control of the game without every really dominating and got caught out by a long ball over the top as our hosts levelled the scores going into half-time.

"Once more we started the second period brightly and our counter-attacking caused problems.

"We deservedly regained the lead when some good play ended with a neat finish from Curtis.

"We were unlucky not to extend our lead after that as we went close on several occasions.

"Defensively we looked a lot better. Tom Cox pulled off a couple of decent saves in the first half, but we were much more solid in the second period.

"I would say that it was our best performance of the season both individually and as a team. This is the standard that we have to aspire to each game."

WALSALL: Cox, Silver, Bacchus, R. Davies, T. Schwarz, D. Schwarz, Adkins, Jones (Lowe), Wilkes (Howes), Ryan, Curtis. Subs not used: Westlake, Hendrie.

WALSALL 5 SHREWSBURY TOWN 1 - 29/9/2007

THE SADDLERS' youth team ran out convincing 5-1 winners against Shrewsbury Town at the weekend.

"We started the game very well and took an early lead which really settled us down," said Head of Youth, Mick Halsall. "We played some good stuff after that and deservedly doubled our advantage ten minutes later.

"We made it 3-0 just before half-time but then disappointingly allowed our visitors to pull a goal back and thus rule out the possibility of us keeping a clean sheet.

"There were a few changes early in the second period but we went on to add two more goals to give the final scoreline a convincing look.

"It was pleasing to see us play with so much confidence; there were good performances all over the pitch and it is a shame that now we are playing with so much belief we have to wait over a week before our next game."

The Saddlers' goalscorers were Sam Adkins, Andrew Bentley, Rory Curtis, Edward Ryan and Mark Lowe.

WALSALL: Cox, Westlake, T. Schwarz, D. Schwarz, Bacchus, Jones (Hendrie), R. Davies, Bentley, Adkins, Ryan (Lowe), Curtis (Howes). Subs not used: Wilkes, Silver.

BURTON ALBION 1 WALSALL 5 (MIDLAND YOUTH CUP 2ND ROUND) - 08/10/2007

THE SADDLERS' youth team breezed into the next round of the Midland Youth Cup with five second half goals in a 5-1 victory at Burton Albion.

"We started the game well with lots of penetration behind their back four," said Head of Youth, Mick Halsall. "We found it hard to break Burton down during the first half but nevertheless played some good stuff at times.

"We were let down by a lack of quality finishing and also missed a penalty on the half-hour mark.

"A lack of concentration at the back almost allowed our hosts in towards the end of the opening period, but we came out brightly for the second half and once we took the lead on 55 minutes, the floodgates opened.

"We raced into a five-goal lead thanks to good movement and possession plus a lot more quality in front of goal.

"It was disappointing not to keep a clean sheet in the end as we are always striving for that extra quality in all areas."

Rory Curtis, Alan Wilkes, Josh Craddock and a brace from Mark Lowe got the goals for the young Saddlers.

WALSALL: Cox, Silver, T. Schwarz, D. Schwarz, Bacchus, Jones (Hendrie), R. Davies, Akins (Lowe), Ryan, Craddock (Wilkes), Curtis. Subs not used: Howes, Westlake.

WALSALL 3 PORT VALE 2 - 13/10/2007

THE SADDLERS' youth team battled back from two goals down to beat Port Vale 3-2 in the Puma Youth Alliance.

"We started the game poorly," admitted Head of Youth, Mick Halsall. "There was no drive and we duly found ourselves two goals down within the opening 11 minutes.

"It took a while for us to get into our pattern of play and as the first half went on, the game went from end-to-end with neither team able to take their chances.

"We managed to get a goal back just before half-time when Josh Craddock finished off a set-play.

"After a few harsh words during the interval, we came out for the second period much more determined and focussed and went on to play some good football.

"Craddock managed to get us back on level terms with his second goal of the game as he latched on to a through-ball from Richard Davies.

"Again the game was end-to-end, but we made several changes and in the closing stages, a terrific move ended with the 'keeper failing to hold on to the ball as substitute, Mark Lowe found himself in the right place to finish.

"It was very pleasing to see the lads bounce back against competitive and strong opposition. We must avoid letting complacency creep into our game and learn from the mistakes that we have made.

"However, the fact that we were able to turn this game around was encouraging and there were some good displays throughout the team."

WALSALL: Skeldon, Silver, Bacchus, T. Schwarz, D. Schwarz, Jones, R. Davies, Adkins (Ravenhill), Ryan (Hendrie), Croddock, Curtis (Lowe).Subs not used: Westlake, Cox.

WALSALL 0 ROTHERHAM UNITED 3 (PUMA YOUTH ALLIANCE CUP NORTH ROUND 1) - 20/10/2007

THE SADDLERS' youth team went out of the Puma Youth Alliance Cup at the first round stage with a 3-0 defeat at the hands of Rotherham United.

"We started the game brightly," reflected Head of Youth, Mick Halsall. "We played some good football in the opening period but failed to find the finishing touches.

"It was always going to be the case of who scored first would go on to win the game and so it proved as our visitors got their noses in front shortly after we missed another couple of decent opportunities.

"Overall I was pleased with our first half showing, but after we fell behind we started pumping too many hopeful balls forward rather than playing the football that I know we are capable of.

"It is something that we will be working on this week as we regroup and attempt to get back into winning ways."

WALSALL: Skeldon, Westlake, Silver, T. Schwarz, Bacchus, Hendrie (Curtis), R. Davies, Adkins, Lowe (Ryan), Ravenhill (Wilkes), Craddock. Subs not used: D. Schwarz, Bentley.

WALSALL 2 TRANMERE ROVERS 1 - 27/10/2007

THE SADDLERS' youth team worked hard to chalk up a 2-1 victory over Tranmere Rovers in the Puma Youth Alliance.

"We put in a pleasing first half performance," said Head of Youth, Mick Halsall. "We looked good going forward but were unable to make the breakthrough and went in at the break goalless.

"I always felt that the first goal would be crucial and we managed to get our noses in front when Edward Ryan delivered an inviting corner to the near post where Hassan Bacchus was on hand to head home.

"We lost our shape and pattern immediately after the goal as we were guilty of trying to finish the game off too early.

"It allowed Tranmere to catch us out on the counter-attack to level the scores.

"To our lads' credit, they didn't let their heads drop and Richard Davies did well to win the ball in the middle of the park before linking up with Will Griggs and striding through to find the net.

"We finished the game strongly and in the end could have won by a bigger margin. It was pleasing to see our boys cope well with the pressure that our visitors put us under.

"We must make sure that we work hard and get back in shape when we are attacking and lose the ball to make it difficult for our opponents."

WALSALL: Skeldon, Westlake, Silver, T. Schwarz, Bacchus, Jones, R. Davies, Craddock, Ryan, Ravenhill (Bentley), Griggs (Wilkes). Subs not used: Adkins, Hendrie, D. Schwarz.

CHESTER CITY 0 WALSALL 0 - 3/11/2007

THE SADDLERS' youth team played out a goalless draw with a roubst Chester City outfit.

"It was a very aggressive game due to the competitive edge of our opponents," said Head of Youth, Mick Halsall. "As a result we found ourselves drawn into a scruffy and uncompromising affair.

"Clear-cut chances were few and far between at either end, but that said, we just shaded it and were slightly the better side.

"It was not a fluid match, but it provided our boys with a massive learning curve. Every game at this level is about learning to cope with different situations and this will help our lads in their development.

"They had to remain calm and collected despite being provoked on a number of occasions and this will stand them in good stead for future challenges."

WALSALL: Skeldon, Woolleston, D. Schwarz, T. Schwarz, Bacchus, Jones (Travis), Bentley, Adkins, Ryan (Lowe), Ravenhill, Griggs (Curtis). Sub not used: Westlake.

NOTTINGHAM FOREST 1 WALSALL 2 (FA YOUTH CUP FIRST ROUND) - 7/11/2007

THE SADDLERS' youth team stunned Nottingham Forest by winning 2-1 at the City Ground to make progress into the second round of the FA Youth Cup.

A penalty from Andrew Bentley and a further strike from Josh Craddock gave Mick Halsall's boys a memorable victory. "The lads were fantastic," beamed Halsall. "We did our homework and it helped us to set out our game plan.

"All credit to the players, they set their stall out early on, played some good football and worked extremely hard.

"Forest are an Academy side and have a very good reputation, but on the night we proved to be just as good as them.

"The work-rate and togetherness of the whole squad was outstanding. It is all about being together and working as a unit and I was keen to stress that to the lads at the end.

"It's a memory that the boys can take with them. It's a great achievement and we will look to build on that."

WALSALL: Skeldon, Silver, Bacchus, D. Schwarz, T. Schwarz, Jones (Woolleston), Bentley (Westlake), R. Davies, Ryan, Curtis (Ravenhill), Craddock. Subs not used: Hendrie, Cox.

SHREWSBURY TOWN 0 WALSALL 8 - 10/11/2007

THE SADDLERS' youth team stormed to an 8-0 victory at Shrewsbury Town in the Puma Youth Alliance.

"The game started in a rather scruffy fashion," said Head of Youth Mick Halsall. "On a difficult pitch, we found it difficult to get going early on, but once we took the lead through an individual effort from Dexter Ravenhill on the half-hour, we never looked back.

"Within five minutes we had doubled our advantage when a neat moved ended with Mark Lowe finding the net from close range.

"We made a couple of changes for the second half as Lowe was forced off through injury to be replaced by James Travis and Alan Wilkes came on in place of Ravenhill.

"Both substitutes made an immediate impact as Travis crossed invitingly for Wilkes to score.

"It was to be the first of four goals for Wilkes as we took total control of proceedings, playing some good football and expressing ourselves.

"To be fair, it got too easy at times but both Bill Jones and myself were keen to emphasise to the lads the need to keep things simple and play as though we were only one goal to the good.

"Travis and Stuart Hendrie also got their names onto the scoresheet to give us a convincing win."

WALSALL: Cox, Westlake, D. Schwarz, Woolleston, Bacchus, Hendrie, Bentley (Jones), Adkins, Lowe (Travis), Ravenhill (Wilkes), Griggs. Subs not used: Ryan, T. Schwarz.

WALSALL 0 WIGAN ATHLETIC 0 - 20/11/2007

THE SADDLERS' youth team played out a goalless draw with Wigan Athletic.

"It was a tight game," said Head of Youth, Mick Halsall. "Neither side created any real goalscoring opportunities, but that said, three of the best chances fell to us and we were unable to capitalise upon them.

"As the game went on it was looking increasingly like honours were going to end even.

"There were a couple of chances for either side in the closing stages as firstly substitute, Will Grigg saw an effort fly wide of the target before Joel Skeldon came to the rescue with a good block as the visitors managed to find a way through the heart of our back-line.

"It was the story of the game. The most pleasing aspect was that it was a generally disciplined performance in terms of keeping our shape."

WALSALL: Skeldon, Silver, T. Schwarz, D. Schwarz, Bacchus, Jones, Bentley, Craddock, Ryan (Adkins), Ravenhill, Wilkes (Grigg). Subs not used: Hendrie, Woolleston, Westlake.

WALSALL 1 LEEDS UNITED 2 (FA YOUTH CUP SECOND ROUND) - 22/11/2007

THE SADDLERS' youngsters put in a brave performance but were beaten 2-1 by Leeds United in the second round of the FA Youth Cup.

The first opening for either side fell to The Saddlers on 11 minutes when a neat ball from Dexter Ravenhill played in Josh Craddock who got in between the visitors' back-line only to lift the ball over the crossbar.

A header at the near post by Sam Jerome following a right-wing cross was well held by Joel Skeldon in the Walsall goal before Fabian Delph saw a powerful strike bravely blocked in front of goal.

Leeds got their noses in front on 19 minutes when Chris Ovington turned the ball home from close range.

As the visitors upped the tempo, Delph had a shot spilled by Skeldon as The Saddlers cleared in front of goal.

There was a booking for Craddock following a strong challenge on Delph and subsequent clash with Oliver Hotchkiss.

Some good play by Rory Curtis on 34 minutes saw him cut inside before curling a sweet shot that Matthews Edwards in the Leeds goal acrobatically pushed out. It came just moments after appeals for a penalty were turned down when Craddock was felled inside the area.

A free-kick following a foul by Andrew Bentley in the closing stages of the half saw Hotchkiss have his effort well pushed over by Skeldon as the first half ended with Leeds one goal to the good.

The second period started with a speculative high ball towards goal pushed away by Skeldon who hurt his neck in the process but was okay to continue.

The Saddlers applied the pressure in search of a way back into the game and Curtis was played through only to see his effort clip the top of the crossbar amidst appeals for a penalty for handball in the build-up.

We eventually got back on level terms just past the hour-mark when Dexter Ravenhill's low strike took a wicked deflection that beat Edwards.

It took the visitors just three minutes to restore their advantage when a low ball in from the right was swept home by Nathan Cartman.

The lively Delph let fly from distance on 67 minutes and was only narrowly off target before The Saddlers made a change as Alan Wilkes came on for Curtis.

There were loud appeals for a Leeds penalty when Tom Elliott was rather clumsily brought to the ground as he closed in on goal. The referee waved away all protests as Walsall went down the other end and almost profited from another own goal following an inviting low ball in from the left.

As the action hotted up, Bentley was booked for a lunge before he was replaced soon afterwards by Sam Adkins.

There was a yellow card for Tom Schwarz as he pulled back Ovington with time running out before a late chance for the visitors saw Elliott head just over from Delph's cross.

WALSALL: Skeldon, Silver, Bacchus, D. Schwarz, T. Schwarz, Bentley (Adkins), Curtis (Wilkes), R. Davies, Ravenhill, Craddock, Ryan (Jones). Subs not used: Woollaston, Cox.

PORT VALE 0 WALSALL 0 - 30/11/2007

THE SADDLERS' shared the spoils with Port Vale in a goalless draw.

"It was a very tight game, as is always the case against Port Vale," said Head of Youth, Mick Halsall. "There were few opportunities for either side, particularly in the first half.

"There were a number of occasions when I felt that we chose the wrong option in terms of not shooting when we had the chance.

"The players are not positive enough in front of goal at the moment and it is something that both Bill Jones and myself will be working upon on the training ground.

"Vale adopted a more direct approach for the second period, pumping a lot of high balls which gave us a few problems. We had Joel Skeldon to thank for three fine saves to keep us in the game.

"When we had the belief, we managed to get the ball down and play some decent stuff, carving out several half-chances that ultimately came to nothing as the game ended goalless."

WALSALL: Skeldon, Silver (Westlake), T. Schwarz, D. Schwarz, Bacchus, Hendrie (Curtis), Bentley (Wilkes), R. Davies, Ravenhill, Grigg, Craddock. Sub not used: Ryan. 

STOCKPORT COUNTY 0 WALSALL 1 - 15/12/2007

THE SADDLERS' youth team ran out worthy 1-0 winners at Stockport County.

"We played with great discipline right from the start," said Head of Youth, Mick Halsall. "Our hosts started with real purpose but we made a few solid early challenges on the edge of our own penalty area that really gave us a foothold on the game.

"As the half went on, we always looked the most likely side to open the scoring and the goal finally arrived just before the half-hour mark when Alan Wilkes linked up well with Dexter Ravenhill who in turn picked out Rory Curtis and he made no mistake.

"From then on I always felt that we were capable of getting another and we created a few more chances just before half-time as Curtis blazed over and Tom Schwarz came up from the back to put a header wide from a set-piece.

"With a bit more belief and better decision-making after the break we could have easily claimed two or three further goals to make the game safe.

"That said, defensively and collectively we were very solid and Stockport never caused us too many problems. In fact, Joel Skeldon hardly had a save to make.

"It was good to be able to give a few of the younger first-year lads a run out in this game. They are going to be getting their chance more often during the second half of the season.

"They've had to be patient up to now, but the time has come for them to show us what they are capable of with an eye towards next season."

WALSALL: Skeldon, Wollaston, D. Schwarz, T. Schwarz, Westlake, Hendrie (Grigg), Bentley, R. Davies, Ravenhill (Travis), Wilkes (Ryan), Curtis.

WALSALL 3 WREXHAM 2 - 5/1/2008

THE SADDLERS' youth team made a winning start to 2008 with a 3-2 victory over Wrexham.

"It was a good game with both sides trying to play the right way," said Head of Youth, Mick Halsall. "We managed to get our noses in front on 35 minutes with a well-worked goal as we displayed good movement and passing to set up Josh Craddock to fire home.

"Both sides tended to cancel each other out at the start of the second period, but we managed to increase our lead through Rory Curtis.

"We allowed Wrexham back into the game shortly afterwards as we were guilty of not tracking properly, but after making a few changes, we were able to restore our two-goal advantage through Mark Lowe.

"The game was petering out until our visitors managed to pull another one back to set up a tense finish.

"I was pleased with our overall performance and it was nice to return to action with a win after a long break.

"Now is the time when we are going to have to start making changes to the team as we look to give the current first-year boys more experience with an eye towards next season."

WALSALL: Skeldon, Woolleston, D. Schwarz, T. Schwarz, Bacchus, Lowe, Curtis, Bentley, Adkins (R. Davies), Craddock (Ryan), Grigg (Jones). Subs not used: Wilkes, Westlake.

WALSALL 1 CHESTER CITY 0 - 12/1/2008

THE SADDLERS' youth team ran out 1-0 winners in a hard-fought encounter with Chester City.

"It was a tight game played between two sides who know each other very well," said Head of Youth, Mick Halsall. "There were very few opportunities created by either team during the first half and we unsurprisingly went in at the break goalless.

"We were able to open the scoring early in the second half when some battling play in the midfield by Richard Davies saw him create an opening for Cameron Jones who fired beyond the 'keeper.

"The goal meant that Chester had to come out more and as a result this opened up the game. We went on to create three decent opportunities which we were unable to take as we ended up running out 1-0 winners.

"In general it was a tight affair and a hard-fought battle with both sides finding it difficult to break each other down."

WALSALL: Skeldon, Woollaston, D. Schwarz, T. Schwarz, Bacchus, Jones, R. Davies, Silver, Ryan (Hendrie), Ravenhill (Craddock), Wilkes (Curtis). Subs not used: Lowe, Howes.

WALSALL 4 PRESTON NORTH END 1 - 9/2/2008

THE SADDLERS' youth team came from behind to beat Preston North End by four goals to one.

"We started poorly and conceded a goal from a set-play within the opening couple of minutes," said Head of Youth Mick Halsall. "At that stage it looked as though it was going to be a tough game for us because Preston came out of the blocks with real conviction.

"We managed to get a hold of the game as the half went on and Joe Howes set up Josh Craddock to level the scores going into half-time.

"We came out much brighter at the start of the second period and made our dominance tell as Craddock notched two quick goals, thanks to good work on both occasions by Mark Lowe, to complete his hat-trick and put us in a commanding position.

"James Travis then came off the bench and scored within ten minutes to make it 4-1 and, to be honest, we should have added to the scoring as we created some good chances late on.

"That said, it was nice to get back into action and chalk up a good win."

WALSALL: Skeldon, Woolleston, T. Schwarz, D. Schwarz, Bacchus, Jones, Davies (Adkins), Bentley, Lowe, Craddock (Travis), Howes (Grigg). Subs not used: Ryan, Westlake.

WALSALL 2 ACCRINGTON STANLEY 1 - 1/3/2008

THE SADDLERS' youngsters battled out a 2-1 victory over Accrington Stanley on a sunny but windy afternoon.

"After a shaky start, we eventually got into our stride and went on to dominate the game," said Head of Youth Mick Halsall. "Going into the game on the back of a heavy defeat, we played with lots of apprehension in the opening period, but we managed to get our noses in front through Will Grigg.

"We conceded a sloppy goal from a free-kick shortly after the restart but, credit to the lads, as they were able to regain the lead within ten minutes.

"After that we found ourselves on top and went close on a number of occasions to extending our lead and sealing the victory.

"It was an important result for the boys' confidence as we go into the final stage of the season with just five games to play plus a Midland Youth Cyp semi-final clash with Port Vale.

"We want to be able to kick-on and see what we can achieve between now and the end of the season."

WALSALL: Cox, Silver, Cartwright, T. Schwarz, Bacchus, Lowe (Travis), R. Davies, Adkins, Ryan, Grigg (Howes), Craddock (Westlake). Subs not used: Woollaston, D. Schwarz.

BLACKPOOL 1 WALSALL 2 - 8/3/2008

THE SADDLERS' youngsters came home from a blustery Blackpool with a good 2-1 win.

"The game was a scrappy affair due mainly to the conditions," admitted Head of Youth, Mick Halsall. "The first half ended goalless with neither side creating much in terms of serious chances.

"The second half saw us defend well with the wind in our faces and we went on to grab a couple of goals through substitutes Andrew Bentley and James Travis.

"With a two-goal cushion we looked comfortable until the final three minutes when we allowed our hosts to pull a scrappy goal back.

"We came under pressure at the end as Blackpool lauched a number of high balls into our penalty area in a bid to get something from the game, but we kept them at bay to record a good win."

WALSALL: Cox, Woollaston, T. Schwarz, D. Schwarz, Bacchus, Silver (Howes), Craddock, Adkins, Ryan (Bentley), Lowe, Grigg (Travis). Sub not used: Westlake.

MACCLESFIELD TOWN 1 WALSALL 1 - 11/3/2008

THE SADDLERS' youngsters had to settle for a share of the spoils at Macclesfield.

"It was a tight game," admitted Head of Youth Mick Halsall. "We took the lead through James Travis with just ten minutes to go but failed to see it through and allowed our hosts ro equalise within five minutes.

"Even after the equaliser we could have easily won it as we had two efforts cleared off the line.

"All in all I was disappointed that we did not win. At times our selection of passes wasn't good enough and the lads need to be able to apply themselves better in terms of competing and pushing themselves to the maximum.

"It is something that we will be emphasising more so now as we introduce more and more first-year boys to give them an opportunity to impress."

WALSALL: Skeldon, Silver, Woollaston, D. Schwarz, Bacchus, Lowe, Craddock (Travis), Adkins (Ryan), R. Davies, Bentley, Grigg (Howes). Subs not used: Westlake, Curtis.

WALSALL 2 BURNLEY 0 - 15/3/2008

A BRACE from Josh Craddock gave The Saddlers' youth team a 2-0 victory over Burnley.

"It was a game played to a very high standard by both teams," said Head of Youth Mick Halsall. "My players adapted to the situation and applied themselves very well indeed.

"The first half was evenly contested, but we took the lead following a good move as Josh Craddock was on hand to finish.

"This knocked the stuffing out of our visitors and we looked the better side for the remainder of the game.

"The second goal duly arrived when Craddock planted a firm header home from a corner and completed a pleasing victory for us.

"It was a very competitive game, played in the correct manner, with both teams encouraging good movement and communication.

"It will stand us in good stead for the challenge that Port Vale will present to us on Wednesday in the semi-final of the Midland Youth Cup."

WALSALL: Cox, Woollaston, Cartwright, D. Schwarz, Wilkes, Lowe (Bentley), R. Davies, Craddock, Bacchus, Grigg (Howes), Silver (Travis). Subs not used: Skedlon, T. Schwarz.

WALSALL 3 PORT VALE 5 (AET) (MIDLAND YOUTH CUP SEMI-FINAL) - 19/3/2008

DESPITE a spirited display, The Saddlers' youth team have slipped out of the Midland Youth Cup at the semi-final stage, following a 5-3 defeat at the hands of Port Vale.

Mick Halsall's young charges fought back from 3-1 down to take the game into extra-time but it was the visitors who came out on top as they bagged two goals during that period to seal their passage into the final.

Vale took the lead as early as the ninth minute through Will Brown. Josh Craddock levelled proceedings in the 21st minute before Ross Davidson restored the Valiants' lead on the stroke of half-time.

Simon Richmond made it 3-1 just before the hour-mark before Craddock pulled a goal back in the 77th minute.

With just a minute of normal time remaining, Craddock poked home his third goal of the game to take the match into extra-time.

After lifting the Cup last season, The Saddlers were hoping to make it through to the final but goals from Vale duo Sam Lovatt and James Lawrie ensured that it was Vale who came out victorious after 120 minutes of pulsating cup action at the Banks's Stadium.

WALSALL: Joel Skeldon, Jake Woolaston, Hassan Bacchus, Dan Schwarz, Tom Schwarz, Richard Davies (c), Stewart Hendrie, Jamie Silver, Rory Curtis, Josh Craddock, Alan Wilkes. SUBS: Joseph Howes, Andrew Bentley, Mark Lowe, Daryl Westlake, Tom Cox (GK).

BURY 1 WALSALL 3 - 29/3/2008

THE SADDLERS' youth team ran out worthy 3-1 winners at Bury on a blustery afternoon.

"It was another difficult pitch," said Head of Youth, Mick Halsall. "We found it difficult to get into our usual rhythm early on and went a goal down within the opening 25 minutes.

"It was then a matter of battling against the conditions and getting to half-time in order to regroup.

"We never really asked enough questions of the Bury back-line in the first half, but we put in a much better performance after the break and it didn't take long for us to get back onto level terms.

"Edward Ryan and Mark Lowe combined well from a short corner to cross for Tom Schwarz who headed home.

"I knew that if we kept our shape and continued to work hard, we would go on to win the game and so it proved as we notched two quick goals.

"The first came from Joe Howes before Lowe capitalised upon some hesitation to fire home.

"It was a pleasing display, particularly in the second half. It's now a case of the players staying on top of their game and applying themselves to see where it can take them this season."

WALSALL: Cox, Woollaston, T. Schwarz, D. Schwarz, Bacchus (Westlake), Lowe, R. Davies, Adkins, Ryan, Curis (Howes), Craddock (Travis). Sub not used: Grigg.

ROCHDALE 1 WALSALL 3 - 2/4/2008

THE SADDLERS' youth team ran out 3-1 winners at Rochdale to maintain our position at Puma Youth Alliance table.

"We started brightly and deservedly went ahead within the opening 20 minutes when Mark Lowe set up Edward Ryan to find the net," said Head of Youth, Mick Halsall. "We then allowed our hosts to get back into the game and were fortunate to go in at the break still in front.

"We were slow coming out of the blocks at the start of the second period and Rochdale managed to get themselves back on level terms.

"It prompted a couple of tactical changes and this inspired us to start playing again in the final 25 minutes to eventually get our reward as Richard Davies tucked home from the penalty spot and James Travis completed the scoring late on to seal an important win."

WALSALL: Cox, Woollaston, T. Schwarz, D. Schwarz, Westlake, Lowe, R. Davies, Adkins (Geddes), Ryan, Craddock (Grigg), Howes (Travis). Sub not used: Bacchus.

WALSALL 3 CARLISLE UNITED 1 - 5/4/2008

THE YOUNG Saddlers ran out worthy winners against Carlisle United to strengthen our position at the top of the Puma Youth Alliance table.

"I would say that it was the best first half performance that we have produced this season," said Head of Youth, Mick Halsall. "We came up against a very competitive Carlisle United side, but we fully deserved to be two goals to the good at half-time through Richard Davies and Will Grigg.

"They changed their approach for the second period and gave us a tough test. They managed to pull a goal back through a lack of concentration and, to be fair, we were lucky not to concede an equaliser.

"Having worked hard to hold onto our lead we managed to seal the game with virtually the last touch as Josh Craddock added a third goal for us.

"The scoreline may have flattered us a bit, but I was generally pleased with the determination we displayed and the way in which we withstood pressure during the second half."

WALSALL: Cox, Silver, Bacchus, Woollaston, T. Schwarz, Lowe (Geddes), R. Davies, Atkins (Howes), Ryan, Craddock, Grigg (Travis). Subs not used: D. Schwarz, Westlake. 

BURNLEY 4 WALSALL 1 - 7/4/2008

IT WAS a bad day for The Saddlers' youngsters as they slipped to a heavy defeat in a game which saw us forced to play with ten men for 75 minutes.

"The sending off after 14 minutes put us in a precarious position," admitted Head of Youth, Mick Halsall. "It was rather unfair as our boy handled but the ball was going away from goal.

"The resulting penalty was saved by Joel Skeldon and this gave us the chance to recover, but within ten minutes we had conceded as a result of some defensive naivety. Then just before the break we found ourselves two goals down and this gave us a mountain to climb for the second period.

"We managed to get back into it on 55 minutes when Joe Howes fired home with a good finish, but a lack of understanding, albeit with ten men, saw us concede two sloppy goals.

"Having to play with ten men for 75 minutes certainly told on us and it showed that some of our boys need to do work on the mental side of their game.

"It was too easy to blame the inconsistent referee as our players took the easy option instead of trying to apply themselves 100%."

WALSALL: Skeldon, Silver, Woollaston, D. Schwarz, Bacchus, Lowe (Travis), Atkins (Geddes), R. Davies, Ryan, Craddock, Grigg (Howes).

MORECAMBE 1 WALSALL 2 - 19/4/2008

THE SADDLERS' youth team took a step closer to claiming the Puma Youth Alliance title with a last-gasp winner at Morecambe.

"The game was playing in very awkward conditions with a strong wind," said Head of Youth, Mick Halsall. "It was always going to be a scrappy affair, but the one bit of quality in the first half resulted in a goal as Hassan Bacchus did well to set up James Travis who finished neatly.

"We started the second half brightly but were guilty of missing four or five decent chances and were made to pay when our hosts caught us out with a through-ball to make it 1-1.

"The scoreline looked like staying that way until injury time at the end when Will Grigg turned sharply before firing home from 30 yards. It was a fitting way for us to win the game."

WALSALL: Cox, Westlake, Cartwright, T. Schwarz, Patrick (Barrowman), Lowe, R. Davies, Adkins, Bacchus, Travis, Howes (Grigg). Sub not used: D. Schwarz.

OLDHAM ATHLETIC 0 WALSALL 3 - 3/5/2008

MICK Halsall and Bill Jones have guided The Saddlers' youngsters to the Puma Youth Alliance North-West Conference title.

In what was a fantastic achievement for all involved, top-spot was clinched with a superb 3-0 victory at Boundary Park against Oldham Athletic. "We started the game quite well, but it took us around 20 minutes to stamp our authority on proceedings," said Halsall. "The breakthrough eventually came just past the 20-minute mark when Will Grigg finished well.

"The game ebbed and flowed for the remainder of the first half and the home side missed a couple of chances.

"During the interval I emphasised to the lads the need to keep focussed on the issue at hand; it was our title to lose, but Grigg bagged two more goals to complete his hat-trick and confirm the victory in what was a solid overall display.

"All credit must got to the lads for their performances this season. It's been a real squad effort and everyone involved must be congratulated for their application and dedication throughout the campaign."

WALSALL: Cox, Westlake, Cartwright, T. Schwarz, Patrick (Howes), Lowe (Hendrie), R. Davies, Adkins, Bacchus, Grigg, Travis (D. Schwarz).

Everyone here at Walsall FC would like to congratulate Mick, Bill and the lads for their achievements this season.

---

PRESTON NORTH END 1 WALSALL 3 - 12/8/2006

THE SADDLERS' youth team made a fine start to their Puma Youth Alliance North-West B League fixtures with a 3-1 win at Preston North End.

Both teams played some good football, with Walsall having the edge throughout and it was no surprise when we opened the scoring on the half-hour as a neat move saw Netan Sansara pick out Leon Quarless in a wide position and he crossed invitingly for Harry Harris to fire home.

With new goalkeeper, James Wannell and the back-line in front of him looking confident, we managed to double our advantage early in the second period as a Quarless corner found Charlton Davies who in turn set up Harris to prod home his second from close range.

Preston failed to let their heads drop and continued to press forward, but we kept a good shape to deny them.

A couple substitution saw Harris and Hanna replaced by Andy White and Cameron Jones respectively and it was Jones who headed home the third following another well-worked corner.

Again, the home side came at us and we managed to keep them at bay until the final minute when they grabbed a consolation goal. "It was a great start to the season," said Youth Development Officier, Bill Jones. "Both Mick Halsall and myself were delighted with the way that the boys acquitted themselves and it was nice to see the hard work that we have been doing over the summer put into practice."

WALSALL: Wannell, Doran, Sansara, Taundry, T. Schwarz, R. Davies (Bentley), Hanna (Jones), C. Davies, Quarless, Harris (White), Howell. Subs not used: D. Schwarz, Curtis.

WALSALL 2 BURNLEY 0 - 19/8/2006

THE SADDLERS' youth team continued their impressive start to the season with a fine 2-0 victory over Burnley.

Both teams started by playing some good football and Saddlers' 'keeper, James McKeown was tested on a couple of occasions early on as the visitors put some dangerous crosses into the penalty area.

At the other end, Andrew Bentley was unlucky to see his 20-yard drive hit the post as neither side were able to break the deadlock during the first half.

We came out in determined mood after the restart and started to get on top. Bentley was replaced by Cameron Jones ten minutes into the second period and he was involved in the action straight away as his inviting delivery was met by a firm header from Netan Sansara to put us in front.

The goal gave us the confidence to play some free-flowing football and following a four-man move, Jones crossed again this time into the path of Nathaniel Howell who was alert to volley home and double our advantage.

The visitors didn't let their heads drop and Tom Schwarz was forced to clear right in front of his own goal, but we were never in any danger of losing our grip on the game and ran out worthy winners.

WALSALL: McKeown, D. Schwarz, Sansara, Doran, T. Schwarz, C. Davies, Bentley (Jones), R. Davies, Harris, Howell (Curtis), Quarless (Ryan). Subs not used: White, Wannell.

WALSALL 2 CARLISLE UNITED 1 - 2/9/2006

THE SADDLERS' youth team left it late to finally overcome the challenge of Carlisle United and make it three Puma Youth Alliance wins in a row.

In a game that was played in strong winds, our youngsters were unable to take advantage of their early superiority and Charlton Davies was guilty of firing over the crossbar twice with long-range efforts.

As the first half went on, Leon Quarless was starting to cause problems out wide, but our back-line was conceding too many free-kicks just outside the penalty area.

We came out with real purpose at the start of the second period and got our noses in front within five minutes when a neat four-man move ended with skipper Charlton Davies firing home from close range.

It was a deserved lead but five minutes later a defensive mix-up allowed the visitors in to equalise.

To our boys' credit, they didn't let their heads drop and stuck to the game plan to eventually get their reward as substitute, Rory Curtis, who had replaced Harry Harris in the 75th minute, slotted home with a low effort from close range with just minutes remaining.

On balance it was a deserved victory as our unbeaten start to the season continued.

WALSALL: McKeown, Doran, Sansara, Taundry, T. Schwarz, R. Davies (Bentley), Jones (Hanna), C. Davies, Harris (Curtis), Howell, Quarless. Subs not used: Silver, White.

BLACKPOOL 1 WALSALL 1 - 9/9/2006

THE SADDLERS' youth team hit top spot in the Puma Youth Alliance North-West Group B table with a 1-1 draw at Blackpool.

In what were very windy conditions, it took our boys a while to settle down, but as the first half progressed we started to get into the game and create chances, with Charlton Davies pulling the strings in the middle of the park.

With 20 minutes on the clock, Danny White went close to giving us the lead, but our pressure paid off on the half-hour mark when Charlton Davies found the net to put us ahead.

There was a blow on the stroke of half-time when the influential Davies and Harry Harris were both forced to leave the action through injury as Andrew Bentley and Edward Ryan took their place.

We went on to miss several chances early in the second period and were duly punished with just ten minutes to go when Bentley conceded a penalty which the home side converted, giving James McKeown no chance.

"All in all it was a good game between two undefeated teams," said Youth Development Officer, Bill Jones. "We were made to pay for missing chances, but the conditions didn't help matters and our youngsters battled well throughout."

WALSALL: McKeown, Taundry, Sansara, T. Schwarz, Doran, R. Davies, Hanna, C. Davies (Ryan), Harris (Bentley), White, Quarless. Subs not used: Woollestone, D. Schwarz, Silver.

WALSALL 2 ACCRINGTON STANLEY 1 - 16/9/2006

THE SADDLERS youth team maintained their position at the top of the Puma Youth Alliance with a 2-1 victory over Accrington Stanley.

We started the game slowly and a mix-up in defence saw the visitors take the lead with just four minutes on the clock.

It was the wake-up call that we needed and it wasn'tlong before we started to settle down and play some good football.

The equalising goal eventually arrived on the half-hour when a neat three-man move ended with Harry Harris finding the net.

Within five minutes Harris had notched his second to put us in front when he got in front of his marker to head home Chris Hanna's inviting cross.

We continued to play some nice football in the second period, under the watchful eye of first-team manager, Richard Money, but we failed to convert the chances which came our way. By the same token, we never looked in any real trouble at the back and ran out worthy winners.

"It was particularly pleasing that we ended the game with seven first-year boys on the pitch," said Youth Development Officer, Bill Jones. "After the early shock, we went on to play some nice football and I know that Richard Money was pleased with what he saw.

"The youngsters did us proud and can be pleased with their efforts."

WALSALL: McKeown, D. Schwarz, Sansara, Taundry, T. Schwarz (Bentley), R. Davis, Hanna (Brando), Doran, Harris, Curtis (Ryan), Quarless. Subs not used: Wannell, Silver.

WREXHAM 0 WALSALL 5 - 23/9/2006

THE SADDLERS' youth team continued their march at the top of the Puma Youth Alliance with a convincing 5-0 win at Wrexham.

On an excellent playing surface, we started the game strongly and it was no surprise when we took the lead on 20 minutes as Leon Quarless' inviting cross was volleyed home by Charlton Davies to give the home 'keeper no chance.

We remained well on top and six minutes later doubled our lead when Chris Hanna's trickery set up Rory Curtis to find the net.

With Quarless running the Wrexham defence ragged out wide on the left, we went further ahead just past the half-hour when Curtis notched his second with a well-taken goal.

It was 4-0 on the stroke of half-time when Hanna scored with an effort from the edge of the area.

To be fair to our hosts, they never gave up and came out for the second period in determined mood, but our defence, well marshalled by Richard Taundry, held firm to keep them at bay.

As the half went on, we added a fifth goal as a fine solo effort from Hanna rounded off a fine display. "It was a good day all round," beamed Youth Development Officer, Bill Jones. "Everyone did their job and performed to a high level.

"We managed to win convincingly despite going into the game without two of our key players and also losing Dan Schwarz through injury after just 17 minutes."

WALSALL: McKeown, D, SChwarz (Bentley), R. Davies, T. Schwarz, C. Davies (Ryan), Jones (Woollaston), Doran, Curtis, Hanna, Quarless. Sub not used: Wannell.

PORT VALE 3 WALSALL 1 - 30/9/2006

THE SADDLERS' youth team slipped to defeat for the first time this season as Port Vale ran out 3-1 winners.

We made a slow start to the game and were hit by three goals in a short space of time, all from inswinging corners, as our back-line failed to learn from their mistakes.

The second period saw us take control of the proceedings and we finally pulled a goal back on the hour-mark when a handball gave us a penalty which Leon Quarless fired home.

In what was a fast and furious local derby, we continued to have the upper hand as the game went on but were unable to add to the scoring as our sloppy start cost us dear. "It is a lesson that we hope the boys will learn from," said Youth Development Officer, Bill Jones. "We will be working hard on the training ground in a bid to put right certain aspects of our game which let us down.

"It was a hectic, fast game that was typical of a local derby and whilst we were on top in the second half, we gave ourselves too much of a mountain to climb."

WALSALL: McKeown, D. Schwarz, Sansara, Taundry, T. Schwarz (Bentley), Doran, Harris (Jones), C. Davies, Curtis (R. Davies), Hanna, Quarless. Subs not used: Wannell, Ryan.

WALSALL 1 BURY 3 (PUMA YOUTH ALLIANCE LEAGUE CUP FIRST ROUND) - 7/10/2006

THE SADDLERS' youth team crashed out of the Puma Youth Alliance League Cup at the first round stage with a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Bury.

In what was a lack-lustre first half showing, we found ourselves one goal down after getting caught on the break.

We felt that we were more than capable of getting back into it at the start of the second period, but Bury were stronger all round and once they doubled their advantage with another break-away goal, it gave us a mountain to climb.

They eventually went on to grab a third, whilst our consolation came in the form of a Leon Quarless penalty to make the final score 3-1. "Bury were worthy winners," said Youth Development Officer, Bill Jones. "It was a disappointing day all round for us. We were never in the game and fell well below the standards that we have set ourselves this season."

WALSALL: McKeown, D. Schwarz (Curtis), Sansara, Bentley, Taundry, C. Davies, Doran, R. Davies, Harris, Hanna, Quarless. Subs not used: Wannell, Ryan, Woolleston, Hendrie.

WALSALL 2 CHESTER CITY 0 - 21/10/2006

THE SADDLERS' youth team ran out worthy 2-0 winners in their top of the table clash with Chester City.

It was Chester who started the brighter of the two teams, playing some neat football as they looked to break quickly. However, they found our back-line in stubborn mood to thwart their attacking intentions.

Despite losing Harry Harris through injury early on, we managed to take the lead when a right wing cross into the penalty area was headed out as far as Richard Davies who fired home from the edge of the box.

We changed our shape at the start of the second period and began to get more and more on top, with our defence, marshalled by the influential Richard Taundry, rarely troubled.

It was no surprise when we managed to double our lead as a mix-up between the visiting goalkeeper and centre half allowed Peter Doran to plant a towering header into the back of the net.

There was never any danger of Chester getting back into the game after that as we finished strongly. "It was a good all-round performance," said Youth Development Officer, Bill Jones. "Other than a spell at the very start of the game, Chester were never really in it and we went on to secure a deserved victory against a side that were also flying high in the Puma Youth Alliance table."

WALSALL: McKeown, D, Schwarz, T. Schwarz, Doran, Taundry, R. Davies, Jones (Ryan), C. Davies, Harris (Curtis), Hanna (Hendrie), Sansara. Subs not used: Woolleston, Wannell.

WALSALL 0 SHREWSBURY TOWN 0 - 27/10/2006

THE SADDLERS' youth team played out a goalless draw with Shrewsbury Town in a game which saw both sides field very youthful line-ups.

With just one second-year player starting the game, it was a good exercise for us. The game began with The Shews having the upper hand but once we settled down and got used to the pace, we started to make an impact.

It was a pretty even affair going into the half-time interval, but with Richard Money watching and encouraging the lads during the break, we came out in the second period and played some good football.

With our central midfield pair pulling the strings, we played some excellent attacking football and were unfortunate not to get a goal as honours ended even in a goalless draw. "It was a very worthwhile exercise for us," said Youth Development Officer, Bill Jones. "The lads acquitted themselves well and played some excellent football in the second half without being able to find the end product which would have won us the game.

"Richard Money, Mick Halsall and myself were very impressed with some of the performances, particularly as we had two under-16 players involved in the squad."

WALSALL: McKeown, Woolleston, Sansara, D. Schwarz, T. Schwarz, Jones, Hendrie (Bentley), R. Davies, Curtis (C. Davies), Wilkes (Howe), Ryan.

WALSALL 2 TRANMERE ROVERS 0 - 4/11/2006

THE SADDLERS' youth team continued their impressive recent form with a convincing 2-0 victory over Tranmere Rovers to go four points clear at the top of the Puma Youth Alliance North West Conference - Group B.

Both teams began in a competitive fashion by playing some attractive football at a good pace.

The first half was pretty evenly matched throughout and it was no surprise that the scoreline was locked at 0-0 going into the interval.

We started the second period with a quicker tempo and it didn't take long for us to start to take a hold of the proceedings.

There was a blow in the 50th minute when Peter Doran was forced out of the action through injury, but his replacement, Alan Wilkes didn't take long to make his mark as he headed home from an Andrew Bentley cross to give us a deserved lead.

Shortly afterwards we managed to double our advantage when another inviting cross from Bentley found the head of Troy Denney who managed to beat the Rovers' 'keeper to the ball.

We were well in command for the remainder of the half to pick up three points against decent opposition. "It was a good, all round display," beamed Youth Development Officer, Bill Jones. "The lads richly deserved the win and responded well to what Mick Halsall told them during the half-time interval.

"Richard Money was also in attendance and he was similarly impressed by what he saw."

WALSALL: McKeown, D. Schwarz, Sansara, T. Schwarz, Taundry, Doran (Wilkes), Jones (Ryan), C. Davies, Hanna, Bentley, Denney. Subs not used: Woolleston, Curtis, Skeldon.

SUTTON COLDFIELD TOWN 0 WALSALL 3 (FA YOUTH CUP FIRST ROUND), 9/11/2006

THE SADDLERS' youth team made progress into the second round of the FA Youth Cup with a convincing 3-0 victory over Sutton Coldfield Town.

We took the lead on the quarter-hour mark through Chris Hanna before Edward Ryan doubled our advantage 20 minutes later. The scoring was completed just past the hour when Ryan netted his second. "It was a hard-fought battle," said Youth Development Officer, Bill Jones. "We went about our business in a very professional manner and kept a good shape throughout.

"Credit to Sutton Coldfield, they stuck to their task well despite coming under pressure for the majority of the game.

"We missed a few good chances but in the end ran out comfortable winners; our back four was never really troubled, whilst the midfield - spearheaded by Charlton Davies and Andrew Bentley - was strong and our front-men lively."

Head of Youth, Mick Halsall was also pleased with the performance of his boys. "It was a good nights work," he added. "Everything went to plan; we had worked hard in the build-up to the game and the lads stuck to our game plan."

Manager, Richard Money was also present to see the young Saddlers secure a second round home tie with Carlisle United.

WALSALL: McKeown, D, Schwarz, Sansara, T. Schwarz, Taundry, Bentley, Jones (Doran), C. Davies, Hanna, R. Davies (Curtis), Ryan (Wilkes). Subs not used: Woolleston, Skeldon.

HEDNESFORD TOWN 1 WALSALL 3 (MIDLAND YOUTH CUP FIRST ROUND), 13/11/2006

TWO GOALS from Richard Davies and another from namesake, Charlton Davies saw The Saddlers' youth team progress into the second round of the Midland Youth Cup with a 3-1 victory over Hednesford Town at Keys Park.

We started brightly and took an early lead through Richard Davies before Charlton Davies doubled our advantage from the penalty spot.

The home side got themselves back into it and pulled a goal back before making life difficult for us in the opening exchanges of the second period.

However, we battled well and secured our passage into the next round with a fine strike from Richard Davies to make the game safe.

WALSALL: McKeown, D, Schwarz, Sansara, T. Schwarz, Doran (Woolleston), Bentley, Jones (Hendrie), C. Davies, Hanna, R. Davies, Ryan (Wilkes). Subs not used: Curtis, Skeldon.

MACCLESFIELD TOWN 1 WALSALL 1 - 18/11/2006

THE SADDLERS' youth team played out a 1-1 draw with Macclesfield Town at the weekend.

Fielding a particularly youthful side due to injuries and Cup commitments, it took us a long time to settle and Macclesfield were guilty of missing several good chances to open the scoring.

They eventually managed to get their noses in front five minutes before the break when a mix-up in defence allowed them to find the net.

To our credit, we were back on level terms within three minutes when Andrew Bentley was felled inside the area and he picked himself up to slot home from the spot.

We altered our shape during the half-time interval and came out for the second period with more purpose.

Overall we had the edge in the second half and missed a couple of opportunities to take the lead, but all in all a draw was a fair result. "To be fair, it was a below-par display," admitted Youth Development Officer, Bill Jones. "It took us a long time to settle down and although we worked harder after the break, we didn't really do enough to deserve to win.

"It was a good learning curve for our boys; they will benefit from the experience and we ended with three under-16s on the field."

WALSALL: Skeldon, Woolleston, Sansara (Hendrie), D. Schwarz, T. Schwarz, Bentley, Jones, Doran, Wilkes (R. Davies), Curtis (Lowe), Reid. Sub not used: McKeown. 

WALSALL 2 CARLISLE UNITED 1 (FA YOUTH CUP SECOND ROUND) - 22/11/2006

THE SADDLERS' youth team have made progress in the FA Youth Cup with a hard-earned 2-1 victory over Carlisle United on a chilly evening at The Lamb.

The visitors won a penalty early on which they fired wide of Jame McKeown's goal. It was a real let-off and we duly went on to take the lead on the quarter-hour mark when a cross from the right was seized upon by Chris Hanna who got in front of the 'keeper to guide the ball home.

We doubled our advantage on 33 minutes when a poor clearance by the Carlisle United 'keeper fell to Hanna who coolly strode forward before rounding the goalkeeper and slotting home for his second of the evening.

Going in at the break two goals to the good, our visitors continued to battle away and made life difficult for us. That said, our back-line was in solid form whilst Charlton and Richard Davies worked hard in the middle of the park.

Carlisle managed to pull a goal back on 69 minutes as they found some space at the far post to beat McKeown.

It made for a tense final 20 minutes or so, but we managed to hold on to set up a home tie with Middlesbrough in the third round.

Credit to both teams for what was a good, entertaining tussle.

WALSALL: McKeown, D. Schwarz, Sansara, Bentley, T. Schwarz, R. Davies, Doran, C. Davies, Hanna (Curtis), Ryan (Wilkes), Jones. Subs not used: Hendrie, Woollaston, Skeldon.

WALSALL 2 MIDDLESBROUGH 3 (FA YOUTH CUP THIRD ROUND) - 15/12/2006

THE SADDLERS' youth team put up a brave fight but went down by three goals to two in the FA Youth Cup third round against Middlesbrough on a rain-soaked evening at Bescot Stadium.

It was the visitors who were seeing plenty of the early ball and took the lead on 12 minutes when a neat through-ball set Jonathan Franks away and he strode through the middle to slot home past James McKeown.

The Saddlers were back on level terms within five minutes when Cameron Jones' ball in from the right caused problems for the Boro defence and Richard Langhthorne put through his own net.

With the rain continuing to fall heavily throughout the first half, McKeown did well to push out a powerful drive from Stephen Thompson as the Walsall defence managed to scramble clear the loose ball. Then shortly afterwards, a dangerous free-kick was fired goalwards by Langhthorne, but the defensive wall did its job to deflect wide.

Both sides tried to pass the ball around despite the conditions but there were no further clear-cut opportunities as the first half ended level.

Middlesbrough started the second period the brighter of the two teams and on 54 minutes they regained the lead when Nathan Porritt found the net.

The Saddlers refused to let their heads drop and continued to plug away. Skipper Charlton Davies hit a rasping shot that deflected out to Edward Ryan who won a corner which came to nothing.

Ryan was then replaced by Alan Wilkes before Boro extended their lead when a long ball forward was headed on to Franks who made no mistake to fire home beyond McKeown.

Some good play out wide by Chris Hanna on 73 minutes saw him cut inside and hit a shot that was just off target before Harry Harris was introduced into the action in place of Nathaniel Howell.

A fine defence-splitting pass by Harris set up Hanna who crossed invitingly into the path of Wilkes who forced the ball home from close range to bring the score back to 3-2 and set up an exciting final 12 minutes.

With the rain continuing to lash down, Netan Sansara delivered a dangerous high ball into the box which Jason Steele in the Boro goal claimed under pressure.

As The Saddlers continued to press for an equaliser, Wilkes forced a corner deep into injury time which Jones curled in, but with McKeown joining the attack, Boro were able to clear their lines and win the tie.

WALSALL: McKeown, D. Schwarz (Bentley), Sansara, Doran, T. Schwarz, R. Davies, Jones, C. Davies, Hanna, Howell (Harris), Ryan (Wilkes). Subs not used: Woolleston, Skeldon.

TRANMERE ROVERS 1 WALSALL 2 - 6/1/2007

AN IMPRESSIVE second half display saw The Saddlers` youth team run out worthy 2-1 winners at Tranmere Rovers in our first Puma Youth Alliance clash of 2007.

Our hosts opened the game brightly, playing some sharp and quick football which was rewarded with a goal within the opening quarter-of-an-hour following a positive break down the right.

It took The Saddlers 20 minutes to settle down properly and get into our stride. Cameron Jones created a couple of openings which were not taken before missing a chance himself as half-time approached.

Going in at the break one goal down, we came out revitalised for the second period and straight away hit Tranmere with some determined attacking football.

We managed to get back on level terms on the hour-mark when some more good work out on the right by Jones saw him set up Chris Hanna who made no mistake to fire home.

We continued to press after the goal and looked the more likely side. Our reward eventually came with just under ten minutes left on the clock when Charlton Davies did extremely well in the middle of the park to carve out a chance for Hanna who notched his second of the afternoon.

In the end we ran out worthy winners in what was an entertaining game for our second half display which saw Charlton and Richard Davies outstanding in the middle of the park, whilst Cameron Jones posed a threat out wide and Chris Hanna took his goals well.

WALSALL: McKeown, Doran, Sansara, D. Schwarz, T. Schwarz, Bentley, Jones, R. Davies, Hanna (Ryan), Curtis (Wilkes), C. Davies. Subs not used: Hendrie, Woolleston, Skeldon.

WALSALL 2 SHREWSBURY TOWN 0 - 20/1/2007

THE SADDLERS' youth team chalked up a solid 2-0 success against Shrewsbury Town in the Puma Football Alliance.

Having made a bright start to the proceedings, we duly took the lead within four minutes when Cameron Jones fired home from distance.

We played some neat football as the half went on and it was no surprise when a second goal followed as a corner was invitingly delivered into the danger zone and Peter Doran smashed the ball home, giving The Shrews' 'keeper no chance.

With Chris Hanna forced off injured, Head of Youth, Mick Halsall decided to bring on youngster, Sam Atkins and push Richard Davies up front alongside Alan Wilkes.

There was a busy start to the second period as Shrewsbury came out of the blocks with purpose, but we dealt with the danger well as Skeldon proved to be a reliable last line of defence.

Both Jones and Richard Davies had good chances to increase our lead but on both occasions they decided to shoot rather than pass and the opportunity was lost. However, we ended up running out comfortable winners. "I went with a particularly young side with a view to getting players ready for next season," said Head of Youth, Mick Halsall after the game. "We played some good passing football in the first half and looked strong going forward.

"Shrewsbury came in to it a bit more after the break, but we always looked dangerous on the counter-attack and we had a few opportunities to go further ahead.

"Between now and the end of the season we may find that results dip a little as we blood youngsters to see what they can do. We are doing well in the League, but it is all about producing players.

"The players want to win, of course, and if we perform and train like we have done recently then I can see no reason why we can't end the season on a winning note.

"Our youngsters have acquitted themselves well and against Shrewsbury the likes of Joel Skeldon, Sam Atkins, Josh Craddock and Jamie Silver can be pleased with their contribution."

WALSALL: Skeldon, D. Schwarz, Bentley, Doran, T. Schwarz, Jones, R. Davies, C. Davies, Ryan (Craddock), Hanna (Atkins), Wilkes (Silver). Subs not used: Curtis, Woolleston.

STOCKPORT COUNTY 4 WALSALL 3 - 3/2/2007

THE SADDLERS' youth team slipped to a last-gasp 4-3 defeat at the hands of Stockport County.

We started the game well, playing some neat football and deservedly took an early two-goal lead. The first came courtesy of a Leon Quarless chip before Harry Harris doubled our advantage as he reacted quickest to a goalmouth melee following a corner.

Further chances came as the half progressed but were not taken as Stockport managed to pull a goal back just before half-time due to a lack of concentration in defence.

The goal gave the home side fresh impetus for the second period and it wasn't long before they had turned the game around and were 3-2 up. With a number of first-year boys in defence, our lack of experience showed but we stuck to our task and managed to draw level in the last minute through substitute, Stuart Hendrie.

It wasn't the end of the scoring, though as deep into injury time we conceded a free-kick out wide on the Stockport right and the ball was invitingly delivered into the danger zone where the home centre-half wasn't picked up and he duly headed home the winner.

"All in all we were bitterly disappointed," said Head of Youth Mick Halsall. "We had spoken about the importance of being compact and strong in defence prior to the game, but it didn't happen.

"Three of their goals came as a result of bad decisions and I only hope that the lads involved can learn from this. At this stage of the season, the younger members of the team need the opportunity to show us what they can do at this level; they are going to make mistakes but the key is how they respond to them.

"I was pleased with the way in which we started this game. We had the opportunities to make it safe during the first half, but we knew that by conceding a goal just before half-time it would give Stockport a big lift and so it proved."

WALSALL: Skeldon, Woolleston, D. Schwarz, T. Schwarz, Sansara, Jones, C. Davies, R. Davies, Hanna (Wilkes), Harris (Curtis), Quarless (Hendrie).

WALSALL 1 PORT VALE 0 - 17/2/2006

THE SADDLERS' youth team slipped to a disappointing 1-0 defeat at the hands of Port Vale.

"To be fair, it was a lack-lustre display by our boys," said Head of Youth Mick Halsall. "We were outbattled at times by a dogged Port Vale side and that is unusual for us.

"There was not a lot in the game, although James McKeown was called upon to make several decent saves to keep us in the match.

"The most pleasing factor was that we were able to get plenty of crosses into the box, but we had no-one on hand to capitalise upon them.

"Once again it is a learning curve for our youngsters. The small pitch doesn't suit our style at times, but we allowed our opponents to get around us and break up our rhythm.

"All in all I felt that we were worthy of a point even though it wasn't a convincing performance."

WALSALL: McKeown, D. Schwarz, Sansara, Doran, T. Schwarz, Jones (Bentley), R. Davies, C. Davies, Quarless, Hanna, Harris (Hendrie). Subs not used: Woollaston, Ryan, Skeldon.

WALSALL 0 WREXHAM 3 - 10/3/2007

THE SADDLERS' youth team slipped to a disappointing 3-0 defeat at the hands of Wrexham.

"It was a poor all-round performance," said Head of Youth Mick Halsall. "We fielded a number of lads with an eye towards next season against a Wrexham side that has played together for most of the season.

"We found ourselves playing against a strong wind in the first half and going in 1-0 down at the break, felt confident that we could turn things around in the second half.

"Unfortunately it wasn't to be as we put in a very poor display during the second period. We were unable to get our usual passing game together and failed to get on the ball like we normally do.

"All three goals that we conceded were poor and down to naivety and lack of desire to win the ball. This is a part of the game that all the players involved will have to improve upon if we are to give ourselves a platform on which to produce players out of this age group that go on to become professionals.

"I would like to think that this is an opportunity for the boys to assess themselves and determine what they want to achieve in the game."

To complete The Saddlers' miserable day, substitute Cameron Jones picked up an injury soon after coming on that meant, with all three substitutes used, we had to play the final 25 minutes with just ten men.

WALSALL: Skeldon, D. Schwarz, Woolleston, Bentley, Reid, Hendrie (Jones), R. Davies, Craddock, Ryan (Howe), Hanna, Harris (Curtis).

BURY 0 WALSALL 2 - 17/3/2007

THE SADDLERS' youth team made a return to winning ways with a 2-0 victory at Bury.

"It was a tough, uncompromising game," admitted Head of Youth Mick Halsall. "We put in a very determined and disciplined display to get our reward.

"The pitch was heavy and there was a swirling wind, but we created numerous chances in the first half and were able to take two of them as Leon Quarless and then Harry Harris were on hand to slot home crosses to the far post.

"It gave us a good cushion for the second half as Bury pinned us back with some direct play, but we dealt with the pressure well and managed to restrict them to just one real chance with 20 minutes to go that James McKeown saved well.

"We had a couple of chances to break during the second period, but we lacked the final ball to get get through on each occasion.

"It was a totally different performance to that in our last game and as long as the players go out showing this kind of commitment and endeavour they will give themsleves every chance of making progress.

"Attitude is the be-all-and-end-all and I was pleased with what I saw in this game."

WALSALL: McKeown, Woolleston, Doran, T. Schwarz, Sansara, Hanna, R. Davies, C. Davies, Craddock (D. Schwarz), Quarless, Harris (Curtis). Subs not used: Ryan, Skeldon.

MACCLESFIELD TOWN 1 WALSALL 4 - 24/3/2007

THE SADDLERS' youth team came from a goal behind to beat Macclesfield Town 4-1.

"On a lively pitch and against a big, physical side we found the going tough in the opening 20 minutes or so," said Head of Youth Mick Halsall. "We fell a goal behind from a well-taken free-kick and after that James McKeown was called upon to make several fine saves to keep us in the game.

"We managed to get back on level terms right on the stroke of half-time through Chris Hanna and this gave us extra impetus for the second period.

"After the break we started to really get into our stride and play some decent football and in the end ran out worthy winners with Harry Harris weighing in with two goals and Leon Quarless grabbing another to make it 4-1.

"Overall I was pleased with the performance, particularly McKeown's saves in the first half as they kept us in it at a time when we were under pressure. It was also good to be able to get Richard Taundry back into action for the final half-an-hour, four months ahead of schedule."

WALSALL: McKeown, D. Schwarz, Doran, T. Schwarz, Sansara (Taundry), Harris (Ryan), Hanna, C. Davies, R. Davies, Craddock (Roberts), Quarless. Subs not used: Curtis, Skeldon.

WALSALL 0 OLDHAM ATHLETIC 3 - 31/3/2007

THE SADDLERS' youth team slipped to a 3-0 defeat at the hands of Oldham Athletic.

"Despite the final scoreline, it was a decent game against competitive and well-organised opposition," said Head of Youth Mick Halsall. "We should have had a penalty early on when Chris Hanna was brought down as he lined up a shot, but nothing was given.

"We went on to create a couple of other good opportunities soon afterwards that we failed to take before being punished for some slack marking at a corner as Oldham edged in front.

"It meant that we had to push up in order to get back into the game and we got caught flat at the back as our visitors broke through for a one-on-one to double their advantage.

"Oldham continued to hit us on the counter-attack during the second period as we failed to create any clear-cut openings to get us back into the game.

"In the end we conceded another goal late on, but despite the scoreline there were a few of our players who performed to a high level.

"We were a bit up-and-down defensively and suffered a blow within the opening 20 minutes when Netan Sansara was forced off with an ankle ligament injury that is likely to keep him sidelined for a month or so. Injuries have certainly blighted our season and meant that I've never had my strongest line-up available at the same time.

"On the positive side, it was good to see Richard Taundry come through 70 minutes of action as he gets back to full fitness.

"We still go into the last month of the season with a chance of winning the League."

WALSALL: McKeown, D. Schwarz, Doran, T. Schwarz, Sansara (Taundry), Harris, Hanna (Curtis), Craddock (Wilkes), R. Davies, C. Davies, Quarless. Subs not used: Ryan, Skeldon.

WALSALL 2 CHESTERFIELD 0 (MIDLAND YOUTH CUP QUARTER-FINAL) - 2/4/2007

THE SADDLERS' youth team have made it into the semi-final of the Midland Youth Cup following a deserved 2-0 victory over Chesterfield at Bescot Stadium.

After a cagey opening, the first chance came in the ninth minute when an inviting low ball in from the left by Leon Quarless was cleared just ahead of Harry Harris by Fearon.

Shortly afterwards a short free-kick by skipper, Charlton Davies saw Quarless line up a strike from distance that flew just over.

Neither side were able to create any clear-cut chances as the half went on, although Dan Gray wasted a free-kick in a promising position for the visitors on 21 minutes.

With 25 minutes on the clock, the lively Quarless put in a cross which found Wilkes but his effort lacked the necessary power to trouble the 'keeper.

As the half-time interval approached, The Saddlers started to increase the pressure and a corner was flicked onto Harry who found himself in space in a good position but he fired well over.

Walsall got their noses in front just a minute later when another ball into the danger zone saw Wilkes make his presence felt in front of goal as Chris Hanna managed to guide the ball home from close range.

Mick Halsall's side deserved their half-time lead having seen most of the ball during the opening period with James McKeown in the home goal rarely troubled.

The second half began with Peter Doran dragging an effort wide from distance, whilst at the other end Gray put a long distance attempt over before Williams was also off target as we restricted Chesterfield to hopeful efforts.

On 66 minutes Richard Davies drilled in a powerful drive that was blocked by the 'keepers' face and left him in need of treatment as Fearon was on hand to complete the clearance.

There was a flashpoint on 73 minutes when a late tackle near the touchline by Wilkes on visiting substitute, Joshua Law sparked a melee, however order was soon restored.

The Saddlers had to scramble clear a dangerous corner with time running out before Edward Ryan came on in place of Wilkes.

Ryan's first involvement in the action saw him receive the ball from Hanna but his effort went wide of the target. However, with 84 minutes on the clock he managed to get his name on the scoresheet to clinch the tie as he powerfully swept the ball home from Hanna's pass.

The next attack saw Charlton Davies' shot dip narrowly over as Hanna was replaced by Rory Curtis.

It wasn't long before Curtis was presented with a chance as he got in a free header but his effort landed the wrong side of the post.

The closing stages saw Harris replaced by Josh Craddock as Mick Halsall's side confirmed their place in the semi-final where we are away at Grimsby Town who beat us in the Final of this competition last season.

WALSALL: McKeown, D. Schwarz, Taundry, Doran, T. Schwarz, C. Davies, Hanna (Curtis), R. Davies, Wilkes (Ryan), Harris (Craddock), Quarless. Subs not used: Woollaston, Skeldon.

WALSALL 4 ROCHDALE 0 - 7/4/2007

THE SADDLERS' youngsters chalked up a convincing victory over Rochdale.

"Against very competitive opposition, we started the game brightly," said Head of Youth, Mick Halsall. "We managed to get our noses in front in the tenth minute when Josh Craddock played in Edward Ryan with a neat through-ball and he made no mistake.

"We continued to press and were rewarded with a second goal when Richard Taundry played a neat ball down the line to Chris Hanna who showed skill and pace before finding the net from an acute angle.

"There was a scrappy start to the second period. I told the players during the interval that it was important to keep our shape, which we did, and managed to score two more goals towards the end.

"Chris Hanna caused problems all game with his willingness to chase and he won a penalty which he stepped up to convert before substitute, Sam Atkins completed the scoring late on as he finished off a good move.

"All in all it was a pleasing performance from our boys."

WALSALL: McKeown, D. Schwarz, Doran, T. Schwarz (Woollaston), Taundry, Craddock, C. Davies, Ryan (Atkins), Harris (Curtis), Hanna, Quarless. Subs not used: Bentley, Skeldon.

WIGAN ATHLETIC 2 WALSALL 0 - 14/4/2007

THE SADDLERS' youth team slipped to a 2-0 defeat at Wigan Athletic as we chase top spot in the Puma Youth Alliance.

"It was a poor performance," admitted Head of Youth, Mick Halsall. "They were a direct, physical side but, to be fair, we never had a shot at goal.

"It was a disappointing result as a win would have stood us in good stead for the final games as we chase top spot.

"Maybe the pressure is starting to tell on our boys. They have a Midland Youth Cup semi-final at Grimsby Town this evening and that will be a good test of their character and ability to bounce back.

"With just two League games to go, we are still in with a chance of taking the title and that tells you how well we have done over the course of the season."

WALSALL: McKeown, D. Schwarz, Doran, T. Schwarz, Taundry, Hanna, Harris (Wilkes), Ryan (Sansara), C. Davies, R. Davies (Curtis), Quarless. Subs not used: Woollaston, Skeldon.

GRIMSBY TOWN 0 WALSALL 2 (MIDLAND YOUTH CUP SEMI-FINAL) - 16/4/2007

THE FEEL-good factor currently surrounding the club has continued with The Saddlers' youth team making it into the Final of the Midland Youth Cup courtesy of an excellent 2-0 success at last year's winners, Grimsby Town.

In what was a tough encounter for our youngste