DJ, Dangerous Dougie & youngsters: Five things learned from Walsall's pre-season opener

Douglas James-Taylor enjoyed an auspicious return to Walsall with a first half brace in the 4-1 victory over Leamington.

The 21-year-old formed a strong partnership with Danny Johnson, and also combined effectively with Tom Knowles.

James-Taylor was a bundle of energy up front, and constantly dropped between the lines to initiate attacking moves.

His two goals crowned an all-round strong display, and suggested, albeit against non-league opposition, that he can offer a different style of centre-forward in Mat Sadler’s squad.

DJ on track

There were roughly 28 seconds on the clock when Johnson produced the deadlock breaking strike at the New Windmill Ground.

The 30-year-old showcased his clinical touch by converting his only clear-cut chance of the night.

Walsall have found a reliable goal scorer once again, which will undoubtedly be crucial for the season ahead.

Youth brigade

Sadler provided Joe Foulkes, Ronan Maher, and Marvellous Onabirekhanlen with a half each on Tuesday night.

Left-back Tom Owen was also presented with his first taste of senior football when he was introduced for Chris Hussey.

Sadler has announced his desire to create a pathway from the academy to the first team, and pre-season will provide him with an ideal window to judge the latest clutch of youngsters.

McEntee in midfield

Oisin McEntee was trialled as a defensive midfielder in the final fixture of last season, and operated in the pivot role once again at Leamington.

Sadler started with a 3-5-2, as Priestley Farquharson, Donervon Daniels and Hussey formed a three-man defence.

Brandon Comley missed the game through illness, but McEntee’s new found role will increase Sadler’s midfield options.

Walsall also used the second half to field four trialists.

Knowles at wing-back

Knowles thrived at right-wing back - setting up both of James-Taylor’s goals.

Many expect Joe Riley to start the campaign on the right, but Foulkes succeeded Knowles in the wing-back slot in the second half.

Instead, Riley played in the heart of midfield and almost scored when his powerful shot was saved.