Draw was the right result says Walsall boss Jon Whitney

Defences were on top for the Saddlers first ever visit to the Kassam Stadium with both teams showing flashes of quality but with clear-cut chances few and far between.

And Whitney felt a draw was the right result, despite being disappointed his team didn't go on to win all three points following a flurry of late chances.

"I thought possession wise they shaded the first half but without creating any real clear-cut chances," the boss said.

"We defended well but didn't keep the ball well enough. In the second half I thought our game plan worked better. We took the pressure off in the first 10 minutes and then I felt we played the better football.

"We created better chances and I thought we might sneak it late on because they look tired and I thought we looked strong and bright towards the end.

"All in all, it was a fair result but I am a little bit disappointed we didn't get the win."

Whitney sprung a surprise in naming his starting line-up with Kory Roberts handed his debut at centre-back.

The 19-year-old replaced Matt Preston who was unwell and remains a doubt for the Saddlers clash with Rochdale on Monday.

And Whitey was delighted with how Roberts handled his first senior start.

"Back to back clean sheets is always nice – but I think we have to give a special mention to Kory Roberts.

"We all gave him a round of applause in the dressing room. You always remember your debut. It's nice for me, as a manager, to give him that game and I thought he did really well.

"I am proud of the kid and proud of my players for helping him through it.

"I had options. But I have watched Kory in 15 to 20 games over the past 12 months and I haven't seen him play badly.

"I think he did really well. All credit to the kid."