Sam Mantom kicks on from Walsall goal
Walsall midfielder Sam Mantom scored the goal that sent his old boss crashing out of the FA Cup.
But he insists Walsall have no time to rest of their laurels ahead of what is a 'massive' game against promotion rivals Coventry tonight.
Fresh from their victory over Dean Smith's Brentford at Griffin Park, the Saddlers head to the Ricoh Arena to take on a Coventry side who have lost just once in their last 16 League One games.
Tony Mowbray's side thrashed Crewe 5-0 last time out and enjoyed a rest over the weekend, having already been knocked out of the FA Cup.
And, with Walsall losing to Rochdale in their last league fixture, Mantom reckons the Saddlers are determined to come away with all three points.
He said: "We've only had couple of days to prepare, but we know Coventry at the Ricoh Arena is a massive game.
"We had a big following at Brentford and we are going to have a big following there and we need to be ready. They are right up there with us competing for promotion.
"But it's an even bigger game after what happened against Rochdale. Coventry are a very good team and they have made a lot of good signings.
"We have to stand up and be counted and I'm sure we will be."
Mantom was recalled to boss Sean O'Driscoll's starting line-up after being among the substitutes for the loss against the Dale.
And the box-to-box midfielder hopes his performance in West London will see him retain his place for tonight's clash.
He said: "I was glad to be back in. I was disappointed to be dropped against Rochdale and I didn't see a reason why after the Peterborough game.
"Hopefully, I have come in now and given the gaffer something to think about. We played a midfield diamond and I think we were really fluid and passed the ball well.
"We had to dig in at times, but we did it superbly. Sometimes you can get caught out in wide areas when you play that system.
"But we just tried to make it as difficult as we possibly could for them and I think it worked."
Mantom admitted his wonder strike at Brentford was one of the highlights of his career.
He added: "To score that goal in front of 1,600 Saddlers who were rocking is what dreams are made of. Especially as it was against Dean Smith and a good Championship side.
"The dressing room was a very happy place afterwards and to see the fans at the end – it was a great day for everyone.
"For me, it was up there with winning Player of the Year and playing at Wembley last season. It was a great feeling."
