Walsall 0 Tranmere 1 - verdict
Walsall were hit by a Savage blow after they slipped to a late defeat against play-off chasing Tranmere Rovers.
The Saddlers looked a good bet for at least a point - which was the least they would have deserved - until Bas Savage headed in former Saddler Edrissa Sonko's far post cross 12 minutes from time.
It was a cruel goal to conced for the hosts, who more than matched their visitors who moved into the league one play off place after victory.
Michael Ricketts had seen a 19th minute volley crash against the bar in an open first half, while goalkeeper Rene Gillmartin had to save Ian Moore's low effort soon after.
Then, right on half-time, the Saddlers shotstopper produced a splendid save to keep out Ben Kay's rasping volley.
In the second-half, Jabo Ibehre should have put the Saddlers ahead after 65 minutes but he blazed over after being put clean through.
Then Gilmartin again saved well from another Kay volley, before the midfielder headed Ian Moore's cross inches wide after 75 minutes.
But Rovers took the lead after Savage cut it at the far post to break Walsall hearts.
Late drama ensued as Ibehre saw a header saved late on, before Gilmartin stopped Moore making it 2-0.
