A reality check for Walsall manager

Walsall manager Dean Smith admits this week's friendly defeat may have jolted the expectations he has been happy to encourage at the Banks's Stadium.

But the Saddlers boss insists excitement is building within his squad for the August 6 start against Leyton Orient, despite Tuesday's defeat at League Two club Cheltenham.

Smith is focused solely on ironing out the wrinkles in the new-look team put together from the summer transfer market and will have that in mind again in Saturday's final warm-up game at Port Vale.

And the manager expects another challenge which will test his players physical qualities, which took them by surprise at Cheltenham.

He said: "Does a result like that temper expectations a bit? Yes, it probably does.

"But I've never been a big lover of pre-season games as a player or now as a manager to be honest. I just like to get through and get the season started.

"I think the excitement is definitely building among the squad for the start of the season and that first game.

"The result and performance at Whaddon Road was disappointing but we all can't wait until August 6 comes around.

"I have mixed and matched in most of the pre-season games so far, but I am conscious that most players like to get 90 minutes under their belts the week before the season starts."