Two 8s and deadline-day arrival rated from Walsall's trip to Exeter City
Jack Dakin rates the Walsall players in Exeter.
Walsall extended their unbeaten start to the season with a goalless draw at Exeter City - here’s how they rated.
Jed Ward
Didn’t have all that much to do, with Exeter registering just three shots on target. However, was handy when needed and secured a fifth clean sheet in just seven games.
Decent 7
Mason Hancock
Linked up superbly with Reece Smith on the left flank on numerous occasions, especially in the first half. Dealt with Gwion Edwards rather effectively too.
Solid 7
James Connolly
A captain’s defensive performance away from home, with blocks, clearances and tackles at the heart of his display to secure a fifth shutout.
Brave 8
Ryan Leak
Thrown back in after missing five matches with an injury and dealt with Exeter’s frontline well. Countless defensive contributions and put his body on the line multiple times.
Heroic 8
Elicha Ahui
Offered little quality on the ball to support Courtney Clarke but was satisfactory defensively. Some shaky moments at the back.
Mixed 6
Isaac Moore
Continuing to grow game by game. Battled well in the midfield and put his body on the line frequently.
Consistent 7
Charlie Crew
Looked solid throughout his 80-minute cameo and broke up play well; his fighting spirit in the midfield was crucial at times.
Steady 7
Reece Smith
The best of Walsall’s starting forwards and linked up well with Mason Hancock on the left. Created a few chances and tested Jack Bycroft.
Creative 7
Antony Evans
A somewhat tough afternoon just four days after signing for the Saddlers on deadline day. Showed flashes of quality but struggled to really impact the game.
Quiet 6
Courtney Clarke
A quiet afternoon by Clarke’s standards on his return after missing the Crewe Alexandra draw with a knock. Struggled to create much with a tough battle against Luca Woodhouse.
Inconsistent 5
Aaron Pressley
Struggled to get a major foothold in the game in the final third but won important defensive headers from Exeter set pieces.
Limited 6
Substitutes
Lewis Simper (for Evans, 65) Only had a 30-minute cameo at St James Park, but looked more energetic than his predecessor. Tested Jack Bycroft on occasion and frequently looked to create when on the ball. 7; Andy Dallas (for Clarke, 80), Sven Sprangler (for Crew, 80), Harrison Burke (for Ahui, 90). Unused: Wooster, Sodje, Furlong.
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