Walsall 2 Darlington 2 - Player ratings

JACK ROSE

Despite again conceding two goals, Rose did little wrong and looked solid. In fact, he performed a stupendous acrobatic save early on in the second half to tip Wheatley's shot onto the bar, saving his side going two goals down. 6

SHAY FACEY

Facey is rightly getting a run in the team now, but he struggled to make a statement against Darlington. It wasn't a bad performance by any means, but he didn't make his mark either. Going forward he was ineffective. 5

DAN SCARR

It was potentially Scarr's worst game in a Saddler shirt. The improved player that emerged during the club's winning run has struggled in recent weeks. In this game he looked nervous and made too many mistakes, including his sending off. 3

MAT SADLER

As captain, there were times when Walsall needed a leader and Sadler did this as best he could, in a tough situation. He was solid enough and was easily the best defender in a red shirt, but was left isolated with poor performances around him. 6

ZAK JULES

Jules only lasted 22 minutes, so it's tough for him to be rated higher than four. But when he was on the pitch he looked nervous, devoid of confidence and out of place. Nowhere near his best, which he has produced this season. 4

CAMERON PRING

Pring was nullified going forward from the off and the formation change didn't help his game. He's better suited to wing-back but throughout the whole game he struggled going forward. As with Facey, he didn't do much wrong though. 5

RORY HOLDEN

Holden only last 20 minutes, and although the Jules change felt tactical, Holden's withdrawal seemed to be more about his performance. He struggled with and without the ball and didn't make any impact. 3

ALFIE BATES

He's only 18-years-old but Bates is showing maturity beyond his years. He made mistakes in this game, but he consistently picks himself up and goes again. He was instrumental in both goals and was Walsall's man of the match. 7

LIAM KINSELLA

Kinsella always offers work rate and a tenacious performance but his overall play wasn't at its best. His passing was always backwards or sidewards and he needed to offer more going forward. 5

ELIJAH ADEBAYO

He could have had a hat trick, but his finishing was extremely poor - Adebayo should have put the game to bed for Walsall. His hold-up play, however, was good at times and he does possess talent, but it needs unlocking. 4

RORY GAFFNEY

A really poor day for Gaffney who looks tired and drained. He missed an open goal in the first half and was rightly hauled off after an hour. It may be time to rest him and start Lavery to try and ignite Gaffney's desire. 3

WES MCDONALD (for Holden 22)

McDonald has to start games for Walsall. He occasionally loses the ball or will make the wrong decision, but it’s worth the sacrifice for what he brings to the team. He’s quick, good on the ball and has an eye for goal. 6

JAMES HARDY (for Jules 22)

Considering Hardy has struggled for time on the pitch this season, he did well when he came on. Working from the right flank, and coming inside, he was able to get on the ball and affect the game more. 6

SUBS: Lavery (for Gaffney 61) 6.

Subs not used: L.Roberts, Norman, Liddle, Gordon.