Dean Smith: Walsall played well in defeat
Walsall boss Dean Smith praised his side despite their Johnstone's Paint Trophy exit at Morecambe.
Second-half goals from Tom Barkhuizen and Jamie Devitt secured a 2-0 win for the Shrimps at the Globe Arena.
The result means the Saddlers lost for the first time this season. A win would also have seen Walsall record seven straight victories for the first time since the 1959-60 season.
Smith said: "I am disappointed we are out of the cup but. performance wise, I couldn't ask for any more.
"The difference, compared with the other games, was that we didn't take our chances. We had a taste of cup success last year and we wanted to do well.
"But, with the opportunities we created, we should have scored."
Last year's beaten finalists created more than 20 chances. But the best fell to Adam Chambers just before half-time, with the skipper firing wide after being played through by Tom Bradshaw.
Smith said: "I thought he should have taken it first time, but he has taken a touch and put it wide. He was absolutely devastated in the dressing room, but all players miss chances.
"We have had a great start and I have got a group that is together and has a great spirit. We have nothing to be ashamed of."
Most Walsall fans were just happy to see star striker Bradshaw walk off the coach after being linked with a move, Swindon Town showing a keen interest.
But Smith was never overly concerned, joking: "I'm only ever concerned when the chief executive rings me, but now I just don't answer!"
"Tom is happy at the football club and we are pleased to have got through the window.
"Now we can concentrate on what we have been doing which is putting in good performances."
