Walsall talking points: Back-to-back defeats to end disappointing campaign
The key talking points from Walsall’s 3-1 defeat against League Two champions Bromley at Hayes Lane in League Two.
Back-to-back defeats
Ben Thompson opened the scoring with a stunning shot from distance after Bromley took time to grow into the contest.
Mitch Pinnock’s low shot from distance went through the gloves of Myles Roberts to double the Ravens’ lead.
Although Jid Okeke momentarily halved the deficit for Walsall, Omar Sowumni quickly restored the hosts’ two-goal cushion.
In total, Walsall have lost 12 of their last 24 games in League Two since they topped the table on Boxing Day - winning just five in the process.
Walsall had the chance to spoil the title party for Bromley, but they pipped MK Dons to the title following their
Byfield interim spell ends unceremoniously
Byfield was in the dugout for the final time as interim head coach, after leading the Saddlers for the last 10 games.
It’s fair to say that it has been a mixed spell and that inconsistency has ultimately cost Walsall in the latter stages of the campaign.
An appointment for Mat Sadler’s permanent replacement - over a month-and-a-half since his March departure - will be the priority in the imminent future.
Switch to a 4-4-2
Byfield shuffled his pack for the final day with a switch to a 4-4-2.
Many suspected Walsall were reverting to a back-three when the team was announced, but Harrison Burke was surprisingly deployed at right-back.
However, Burke had to be replaced by Okeke late in the first half after succumbing to an earlier knock.
Courtney Clarke started on the left wing for his 50th Walsall appearance - while Aaron Pressley partnered Daniel Kanu in attack.
Walsall made four changes in total with Kacper Lopata also coming into the back-line after recovering from a groin issue.
Panache-less Pressley
Pressley did well at times with his back to goal but lacked a clinical touch inside the box.
He had four of the Saddlers’ first half attempts, but his two close-range headers proved tame and comfortable for Bromley goalkeeper Grant Smith.
Lucky escape for Flint?
Walsall were perhaps fortunate to still have 11 players on the pitch when Flint escaped punishment for a challenge on Nicke Kabamba just before the interval.
He pounced on a mix-up between Lopata and Flint, who then caught Kabamba as he threatened to break in behind, but the referee was unmoved.
Comment Guidelines
Iconic Media encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.