Walsall drama can be a catalyst for success

The Saddlers welcome Darrell Clarke's side to the Banks's Stadium for the Boxing Day clash after playing out a 1-1 draw with the Dale on Saturday.

Despite being in control of the game for long periods, Walsall needed a 90th minute equaliser from Maz Kouhyar to secure a point at Spotland.

And Whitney now wants that goal to be a platform as the Saddlers prepare to face Bristol Rovers today before then hosting Rotherham on Saturday.

"The Rochdale result gives us a platform going into the home games now," he said.

"Our fans were excellent at Rochdale. They deserved to be clapped off for travelling up on December 23 when they could have been at home with their mince pies and mulled wine.

"Now we want to give them two strong performances in the next two home games.

"We want to enjoy it. We want the fans to enjoy it and we want to entertain.

"Hopefully the supporters can see we are a young team that is fighting and a young team that is hungry for success. We care.

"I think over the last few games we have been consistent. And hopefully we can carry on these performances into the next two home games."

Walsall's game today is their second in a busy festive period that sees them play four matches in the space of 10 days.

But Whitney insists he and his players are relishing the gruelling schedule.

"I love all games," the boss continued.

"It's all about matches, that is what we are paid for – to play matches and to entertain.

"We enjoy the battle so the more games the merrier for me.

"Our recovery started straight after Rochdale. Sunday for us is normally family day, we let the lads do some recovery themselves.

"But we got them in on Sunday, freshened them up with a few soapy massages and let them have Christmas Day off.

"Now they are ready for Bristol Rovers. There were a few knocks after Rochdale. But you’d expect a few after a game like that."