Analysis: Another opportunity missed for Walsall in Gillingham stalemate

Just as the 1-1 draw at Carlisle United and the 2-2 draw at Cheltenham Town did too. 

In reality, Walsall are beginning to pick up points but they're leaving plenty behind as well, with Bradford City cutting the gap at the summit to just a single point. 

Mat Sadler spoke about his desire to translate draws into wins but a lack of cutting edge in attack ultimately saw them serve up a fourth successive stalemate on the road. 

Only opponents Gillingham and Crewe Alexandra (both seven) have registered more draws than the Saddlers' tally of six since the turn of the year. 

And the lack of wins (just two from the last 13) has done little to ease the nerves heading into a season-defining run of fixtures against AFC Wimbledon, Doncaster Rovers and Port Vale respectively. 

Walsall did produce one of their best performances out of possession for some time. They defended solidly and were organised and disciplined across midfield. 

After a tentative start, Nathan Asiimwe impressed on his first Walsall start and debutant Alfie Chang looked a handful during his late cameo from the bench. 

Sadler made five changes in total. Harry Williams returned to the defence, Ryan Stirk and Charlie Lakin were recalled to midfield and Albert Adomah was given the nod in attack.