Cup run memories still give former Walsall maestro buzz
Former Saddler Gary Childs knows a thing or two about the league cup as well as walking out to face Chelsea.
Now 51, the one-time midfield maestro was enjoying his first season with Walsall in the 1983/1984 campaign when they made it all the way to the semi-finals of the league cup competition – known as the Milk Cup.
Childs scored his first goal for the club at home in the 2-1 victory of Shrewsbury Town in the third round, which earned the Saddlers a trip to Arsenal where they upset the odds to win by the same score.
He said: "My memories of my first goal for The Saddlers against Shrewsbury are a bit vague apart from the overwhelming emotion of scoring my first goal for the club in such an important game. I remember hitting it and how good it felt and more so did the celebration.
"The buzz around Fellows Park was fantastic knowing we were playing so well and had the trip to Arsenal to look forward to.
"That night at Highbury will forever live in my memory as one of the favourites of my career as not just to go there and win, but deservedly win, was the best feeling of my career up to that point and right up there to this day."
Walsall then defeated Rotherham in the quarter final to earn an opportunity for a major scalp by facing Liverpool at Anfield.
They drew 2-2 in what is recognised as one of The Saddlers most historic matches before losing the return at Fellows Park 2-0.
Gary said: "To run out under that famous 'This Is Anfield' sign, to hear the roar and see the amazing Walsall travelling support brings a tingle to me even now.
"It was a fantastic result against such talented players and in their backyard too.
"I will never forget the true sportsmanship from their fans towards us at the end. "This appreciation from the mighty Kop End was a real tribute to the lads."
The following season Walsall met Chelsea in the third round drawing 2-2 at home before the Londoners won comprehensively by three goals to nil on the return.
Childs, who featured in both matches, said: "The Chelsea game at Fellows Park was another great cup night, but we were disappointed in the replay at Stamford Bridge."
l Pick up a copy of the matchday programme tonight for the in-depth interview with Gary Childs.
