Dean Smith: Heat is on relegation rivals

Dean Smith today insisted the heat is on Walsall's drop rivals and the Saddlers have them sweating.

The boss saw his side extend their unbeaten run to three games with a 1-1 draw at Notts County last night and move to within seven points of safety.

The Saddlers are joint bottom with Dagenham and Redbridge ahead of Saturday's trip to Carlisle – the same day as fifth bottom Tranmere host fellow strugglers County.

Walsall could move to within four points of safety should results go their way and Smith believes the pressure is on the likes of Rovers and Brentford.

"After these three games people will start looking over their shoulders, they should do," he said.

"It's a tough place to go, they've just held Manchester City to a draw and they have millions and millions. Give the lads credit, we came and fought well and got the point.

"I said to the lads, maybe a month ago we would have rolled over or been ecstatic with a point but last night there was a tinge a disappointment."

Alex Nicholls' 88th minute strike rescued a point after Lee Hughes' header looked to have KO'd the Saddlers.

It was a vital point in the battle to beat the drop and Smith hailed his side's attitude after they refused to give in.

"We've got fighting spirit and never know when we're beaten," he said. "We ended up throwing three up front and Alex has come up with the goal. It was fantastic for him and for us because it keeps a little run going.

"He scored his goal when he went up top and we've spoken about goals coming from everywhere. We are creating chances and the more we create the more we'll score."

Meanwhile, Walsall's final goal in Saturday's 6-1 win over Bristol Rovers has been awarded to Jason Price after he deflected in Andy Butler's header.