Mat Sadler hails Walsall match-winner Jamille Matt after Port Vale win

Experienced frontman Matt scored the decisive goal six minutes after the break from Taylor Allen's corner to extend his tally to six goals in League Two this term. 

That surpassed his league tally from the previous campaign and equalled his total of six across all competitions last season. 

As a result, Walsall climbed above Port Vale and two points clear at the league summit with a game in hand and Sadler was delighted to see Matt enjoy his moment in the spotlight.

He said: "Cracking. That was the moment to win the game and we're delighted with that. 

"To get that moment in front of the supporters as the captain on the day, with Taylor getting the armband afterwards, was a good moment." 

"Sometimes he gets the extra day but you see how he plays. He doesn't hold anything back and is a real focal point for our team as he has been throughout his career. 

"The lads feed off him and feed off the energy that he gives and he's an incredibly person firstly."

The windy conditions made for a very scrappy affair, especially in the first half, as Rico Richards came close for Port Vale with a curling finish which whistled just wide. 

Allen crashed his corner against the crossbar while Nathan Lowe had a great chance to double Walsall's advantage when he was expertly denied by Port Vale goalkeeper Connor Ripley. 

Walsall extended their unbeaten run on the road to six games and Sadler was pleased by the response from the 4-0 drubbing against Charlton in the FA Cup after collecting maximum points against Notts County and Port Vale.

He continued: "We continually talk about responses. The response to not unfortunately getting through to the next round of the cup which is what we wanted last Saturday. 

"But we responded really well off the back of that. Loads of challenges ahead and lots of tough moments ahead but we want to create more good memories during those moments." 

Jamie Jellis was absent for the second game on the spin after hobbling off with a calf injury against Charlton in the cup. 

The midfielder is not expected to be a long-term absentee although Sadler confirmed he will not be available for the midweek visit of Reading in the EFL Trophy. 

However, Jellis will be targeting a potential return when Walsall resume league action against Barrow in the league on Saturday.

"No (he won't be available for Reading) if I'm honest. He was never playing today but he will hopefully be available for Saturday (against Barrow)," he revealed.