Walsall talking points: Signs of improvement, no goals and Alex Pattison blow

Walsall drew the curtain on pre-season with a goalless draw against League One side Notts County on Saturday.

Here are the key talking points from the Saddlers’ goalless stalemate.

Signs of improvement

Performances in pre-season have been underwhelming, but there were visible signs of improvement against County.

Andrew Dallas threatened between the lines and the midfield dynamics between Isaac Moore and Sven Sprangler continue to show promise.

Walsall had the better chances and perhaps warranted the victory. Lewis Simper had a close-range finish blocked behind and Dallas twice came close from distance.

Jed Ward also preserved his clean sheet with a pair of steady saves in the second half: sprawling to his right to thwart Maz Kouhyar’s free-kick and denying Darius Lipsiuc one-on-one.

Lack of goals still a concern

Despite offering a much stronger display, Walsall still failed to find the net, which has been a frustrating theme throughout pre-season.

In front of supporters, Walsall have drawn blanks against Leamington, Aston Villa, AFC Telford United, and now Notts County.

The squad is still bedding in after a summer of sweeping changes, but it was pleasing to see tangible evidence that this team are beginning to adjust to Grant’s demands.

Pattison blow

Grant confirmed Saddlers’ supporters worst fears when he revealed that Alex Pattison is set to miss the next two months with a hamstring injury.

It serves as a real blow for Pattison, who was hoping to serve as a driving force for change this season, and for Walsall.

Pattison could still play a key role upon his return, but Walsall will be without one of their most important players until possibly early October.

There was at least positive news regarding James Connolly and Rico Browne.

Both were forced off in a 5-0 behind-closed-doors drubbing at Luton Town on Wednesday, but Grant is hopeful that the pair will return to training on either Monday, or Tuesday.

However, the Walsall head coach did not disclose the nature of both injuries.

Smith looks a talent

Latest signing Reece Smith made his Bescot bow and did not waste his opportunity to impress.

He delivered an early free-kick which was headed over by Isaac Moore and embarked on a handful of exciting runs.

The winger certainly looks as if he could be a strong attacking outlet this season and his propensity to take on defenders will certainly get fans off their seats.

Momentum boost

It might not be a victory, but Walsall will at least head into their first competitive game under Grant off the back of their best performance of pre-season.

Walsall could ill-afford to create further doubt ahead of the new season and the performance on Saturday has at least helped settle some of the pre-season nerves.