Darren Wrack’s injury time free kick salvaged a point for Walsall at home to Barnsley today, but the Saddlers are looking anything but promotion candidates.
Mark Paston came in for the out of form Richard McKinney, whilst Simon Osborn and Jorge Leitao also came into the first eleven in place of Gary Birch and manager Merson. Barnsley included Chris Shuker, who played for Walsall on loan for a short time, and Matt Carbon, who played for Walsall when he wasn’t injured.
Paul Hart’s men took an early lead, when Tony Vaughan headed in Stephen McPhail’s corner from close range (15). The Saddlers drew level after 36 minutes however, when Darren Wrack latched onto Mark Kinsella’s lofted free kick and crossed for Matty Fryatt to slide in his fourth goal in four games.
The Tykes came out strongly after the break and regained their lead after 49 minutes. Tom Williams’s left wing cross was powerfully headed home by the unmarked Barry Conlon – Paston left with no chance.
Walsall’s play became ‘gung ho’ for the remainder of the game. Striker Leroy Williams replaced full back Darren Bazeley, Standing replaced Kinsella and Tai Atieno made his debut, coming on for the injured Matty Fryatt. Throwing so many men forward, the Saddlers lost their shape and were vulnerable to the pace of Shuker on the break.
Wrack salvaged a point however, curling a free kick from the edge of the area in off the post.