'We had to stand up' - Darren Byfield reacts to Walsall's draw against Cambridge
Darren Byfield believed Walsall looked the likeliest team to score the winner in their goalless draw against Cambridge United at Bescot.
The Saddlers ended a run of four successive home defeats after earning a creditable point against a third-placed Cambridge team - who extended their unbeaten run to eight games.
But the U's failed to register a shot on target, as Charlie Lakin had a corner tipped on to the post and Aden Flint saw his towering header cleared off the line.
Although it was a game of few chances, interim Byfield was pleased with the way his team stood up to the challenge to register four points from the last six available during his short reign.
'The fans appreciate it'
"I thought first half they shaded it and then we came into it probably in the last five or 10 minutes," Byfield said.
"We had to stand up to it and we understand that we're not going to get he ball down and play when these Cambridge boys are so good at second balls.
"But in the second half, I thought we were the team that was going to win it and looked like the team that was going to do go on and do so.
"It didn't happen but all we can do is keep putting in that effort, that work rate and try to ask questions of the opposition.
"When you do that, the fans see what you're trying to do and they appreciate it."
Kacper Lopata was given the nod over Flint in defence, although the latter was introduced five minutes into the second half.
Byfield hailed the 36-year-old for how he has responded to being left out of the team and feels others can follow his example.
'Aden Flint is an example to follow'
"Kacper hasn't played that many games. Aden has been brilliant all season but I know people still need a rest regardless," he added.
"They won't say they need a rest. I understand it because everybody wants to play every minute.
"Me bringing in Kasper was to keep him fresh because he has not played as many games.
"Flinty came on and was magnificent. I said to him at the end - brilliant.
"Unbelievable and his attitude was spot on. He won't be happy that he's on the bench or out of the squad.
"But what we ask, when you do come in, you perform. And all the younger boys in the team, look at Aden Flint and how reacted because he was superb today."
Byfield still coy on Walsall future
It remains unclear whether Byfield will be in the dugout when Newport County visit Bescot on Saturday and Byfield was unable to add much more on speculation over his future.
But he did once again highlight his pride to lead the team out in front of the home supporters.
"I'm disappointed I couldn't get the three points for the fans, but for me to take charge of this game at home in front of our fans was a special day," he concluded.
"I know we didn't win but it was a special moment for me."
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