Following requests from Walsall FC’s manager that Saddlers supporters raise the roof at this Saturday’s home game against Torquay United the Independent Saddlers fanzine “Ninety Minutes From Europe” has answered the call and Upthesaddlers.com is pleased to be able to do its part in helping with the initiative.

This Saturday “Operation: Red Hot” will see 8,000 balloons distributed by volunteers from the fanzine and various independent supporters groups and websites with the good wishes of the club on the Bescot site.

Editor of Ninety Minutes From Europe, Steve Stuart said, “Saturday’s game is a massive one for Walsall FC. Until safety is absolutely certain it is up to everyone associated with the club to do their utmost to help us secure our present status.”

“The role of the fans can be a deciding factor in such games and so we are organising ‘Operation: Red Hot’. Simply turn up at the game, wear something red, grab a balloon and shout in support of the team from the first whistle to the last. And hopefully we can all go home happy.”

“If you only go to one more game year this term make it this one. Season Ticket holders have a voucher in the back of their books allowing them to take a friend to the game for a fiver. There has never been a better time to drag someone along to game with you.”

If you want to help out with the distribution of the balloons meet in the lounge of the White Lion sometime between 12pm and 1.30pm on Saturday or email nmfeteam@hotmail.com

Player Manager Paul Merson is struggling to be fit for Saturday’s relegation six pointer against Torquay.

Merson revealed in the Express and Star that he picked up an injury shortly before the end of Monday’s defeat at Barnsley. Even if passed fit to play against Torquay, he will need pain killing injections.

Mark Kinsella has also been ruled out of the Bescot Stadium clash, as he was due to play for the reserves yesterday in an attempt to get match fit, but the game was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch at Hednesford’s Keys Park.