Walsall 1 Grimsby 0 – Player ratings

Walsall kicked off the League Two campaign with a 1-0 win over Grimsby. Here, Liam Keen rates the performance of the Saddlers players.

Liam Roberts - 7

Another clean sheet for Roberts who again did not have much to do, which is testament to the defence in front of him. He did all the basics well.

Norman once again one of the best Walsall players on the pitch. Made some crucial defensive blocks and then popped up with the assist for the winner.

A giant defender, Scarr used his height well and cleared everything in the air to ease the pressure on his team-mates.

An improved performance from Clarke who was particularly strong in the tackle and used his body well to protect the ball.

It was a big chance for the full-back, who did well. Aside from a couple rash tackles he held his own.

A terrier in the middle of the park, Kinsella has been extremely reliable so far this season. Tough tackling and not afraid to get involved.

A solid showing from Bates, highlighting some consistency from the youngster after the mid-week game. He's been given a chance and he's taking it.

A determined and passionate performance, but at times he fell quiet in front of goal. He is capable of much better, but certainly not a bad showing.

Holden is the key to the 4-2-3-1 formation and can unlock defences. Although he was also quiet at times, his few touches on the ball were sublime.

Although the winger saw a lot of the ball early on, he was not as effective as he would like. He is much better than that.

Adebayo is showing some passion and getting stuck in. Took his goal well and showed some timely movement in the fluid attacking system.

Emmanuel Osadebe (for Holden, 65), 7. Caolan Lavery (for Adebayo, 65), 6. Stuart Sinclair (for Bates, 81), 6.

Subs not used: Rose, Jules, Nurse, Guthrie.