Walsall 1 Scunthorpe 0 - Player ratings

LIAM ROBERTS

Roberts didn’t have much to do in reality, but when he was called upon he was as solid as ever. He collected dangerous crosses well, he commanded his box and distributed the ball well. He’s key to the impressive defensive form. 7

GARY LIDDLE

Despite playing out of position, Liddle has grown into the right-back slot over the last few weeks. With Norman out of favour and Facey injured, Liddle needed to improve on the Bradford game and he’s done just that. 7

JAMES CLARKE

The goalscoring hero had one of his best games in a Walsall shirt. The skipper shows leadership and is strong, powerful and tactically aware when defending. Alongside Scarr he’s building an excellent defensive partnership. 8

DAN SCARR

At the age of 24, Scarr showed maturity beyond his years in this performance. Since being given a run in the side his performance’s have improved, culminating in one of his best to date. He won everything in the air. 8

ZAK JULES

Jules has shocked the most over the last week as he’s proved to be an effective left-back. In a three at the back formation he wouldn’t be suited to left-wing-back, but in a four he has more than proven he can do the job. 8

RORY HOLDEN

Holden huffed and puffed out wide at times and didn’t quite have the desired impact. But he worked hard, linked up well with Gordon at times, and certainly has the talent to succeed. A rigid 4-4-2 may not suit him best though. 6

STUART SINCLAIR

He never stops running, he’s always battling and he leaves everything on the pitch, that’s the best way to describe Sinclair and his performance. A hard-working and honest player who is becoming a fans favourite. 7

DANNY GUTHRIE

There were times when Guthrie was coming too deep to get the ball and couldn’t affect the game further up the pitch. But on the ball he show’s his class and produced another well-rounded performance. 7

WES MCDONALD

On his first start McDonald showed sparks of brilliance. He offers something not many, if any, players at Walsall can. He’s quick and tricky on the ball and when he finds that final product he’ll be a handful. 7

CAOLAN LAVERY

Lavery looked sharp in the opening 20 minutes and was posing a threat to the Scunthorpe defence. His injury is a blow and he’ll be missed - but it’s hard to give more than a five when as he came off early. 5

RORY GAFFNEY

Gaffney battled with defenders and used his body well but struggled to impose himself as much as he has in recent games. He may be tired with three games in a week, but there’s more to come from the Irishman. 6

Subs: Gordon (for Lavery 23) 6, Kinsella (for Guthrie 66) 5, Norman (for McDonald 86) 6. Not used: Rose, Cockerill-Mollett, Bates, Hardy