Hutchings plots end to home drought
Walsall manager Chris Hutchings has rejected suggestions the team are suffering from a crisis of confidence as they go in search of their first home win for six months.
The Saddlers have not won at home since beating Brighton 3-0 on March 17 and have since had eight winless games at the Banks's Stadium, ahead of tomorrow's visit of Swindon.
Hutchings' men have won just four times at home this year, but the boss doesn't believe his charges are scared of playing in front of their own fans.
He said: "No, I don't think so. Every game you put yourself under pressure to go out and perform – individually and collectively – and I think we have been very close to winning games. We've not been getting beaten.
"It is about time we won at home. I can't put my finger on why we haven't but we have done very well on the road and now is the time to make that home form count."
The Robins are managed by Hutchings' close pal Danny Wilson, with the pair having met while at Brighton in the 1980's.
But the Saddlers chief claims they have not spoken in the run-up to the clash.
He said: "They are sixth in the table with back-to-back wins and you can shoot up the table, which they have done."
Swindon visit the Banks's unbeaten in League One since their 5-0 thumping at Gillingham on the opening day, but Hutchings insist the mood in his camp is excellent after their 3-2 win at Tranmere.
He said: "When you win you enjoy the week. You don't enjoy it if you get beaten."
The boss has been robbed of Richard Taundry and Peter Till, both out with hamstring injuries, while Steve Jones and Richard Davies are doubts with respective groin and ankle complaints.
Stephen Roberts is sidelined as the club wait for the result of his back scan, but Sam Parkin has recovered from a shoulder knock.
Hutchings has also hinted he will continue with Rene Gilmartin in goal.
