Darrell Clarke: Walsall have a point to prove

The Saddlers made a winning start to the 2019/20 campaign by securing a 1-0 victory over Northampton on Saturday.

Clarke’s men impressed defensively at Sixfields. But they were also indebted to goalkeeper Liam Roberts who made two outstanding saves.

The Walsall-born shot-stopper endured a difficult end to last season when he found himself out of the side. And Clarke was pleased with his reaction after restoring the 24-year-old to the starting line-up.

“What I like is the determination to prove doubters wrong,” the boss said.

“Everyone in that changing has got somebody saying ‘you’re not good enough’ or ‘you’re too young’ or ‘you are not getting in our team, you need to go out on loan’.

“It’s a big season for every single one of them. They have all got something to prove.

“It’s about using that determination every single day in training and in matches to push your career on.

“Liam Roberts is one of them. He has got the tools, his kicking was a little bit hit-and-miss at Northampton.

“But his shot stopping, his collecting of crosses, that is what I want to see. He didn’t go and hide in his shell. Hopefully he will grow from there.”

Walsall’s win capped a remarkable week that also saw the club taken over by businessman Leigh Pomlett.

But while Clarke was pleased with the result and clean sheet, he kept his feet well and truly on the ground.

“It’s always hard to get that first win on the board, it’s even harder to get that first win and a clean sheet so I’m pleased,” the 41-year-old said.

“We enjoyed it but it’s now back to work.

“We are going to have ups and downs. In this league, anyone can beat anyone.”