Refreshed after a six day rest, Walsall romped to a comfortable 3-0 victory at home to Chesterfield today.

The first 10 minutes were rather bland, but that all changed with a Darren Wrack thunderbolt after 13 minutes. He struck a sweet volley past the hapless Chesterfield keeper from the edge of the area.

Chesterfield looked like they could cause us problems but were generally limited to long-range efforts. The Saddlers doubled their lead midway though the second half. This time it was Leitao who got on the score sheet, connecting with what seemed to be an over hit Paul Merson cross at the back post. Chesterfield changed their shape just after the second goal and this opened up creating an abundance of chances for both sides

Joe Murphy was in inspired form throughout the second half and helped keep the 3-pronged Chesterfield attack at bay. Matty Fryatt, Jorge Leitao and Marvin Robinson all went on to have 1-on-1 chances, but failed to increase the Walsall advantage.

Paul Merson was booed for being awarded the sponsors man-of-match, but then managed to have his say by providing Matty Fryatt with an assist for our 3rd goal. Many fans seemed to think that Murphy, Matt Fryatt, Mark Wright, Mark Kinsella, Michael Standing and Neil Emblen were more worthy winners, but the truth of the matter is that any one of the starting eleven could have walked off with today’s award.

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Fans may be interested to know that former Walasll hero James Walker was awarded his first league start by Alan Pardew.

It wasn’t such a great afternoon for Jim , West Ham lost 4-2. Just how many Jim could have dealt remains to be seen. Has Jimmy blown his big chance? He has waited all season to dislodge Steve Bywater then lets in 4 at the Molinuex of all places. Jimmy must think that there is some kind of hoo-doo that hangs over his head when he plays the Wolves.