Shrewsbury 1-3 Walsall - player ratings: Five 8s in victorious EFL Trophy opener
George Bennett gives his Walsall player ratings from their 3-1 win against Shrewsbury Town at Croud Meadow in the EFL Trophy.
SAM HORNBY
Powerless to prevent Bradley Ihionvien from equalising but produced a string of saves to deny Tommy McDermott in the first half.
Key: 8
RICO BROWNE
Made a crucial block on the line to thwart McDermott and made more defensive contributions than any player on the pitch (14).
Solid: 8
PRIESTLEY FARQUHARSON
Launched an early move which led to the Saddlers;' opener with a measured long ball but was forced off with a groin issue before half-time.
Injury blow: 6
DAN COX
Left striker Ihionvien unmarked inside the box to allow the Shrewsbury debutant to head home but improved as the game wore on.
