Brian Dutton 'delighted' to earn first Walsall win
Brian Dutton is ‘absolutely delighted’ as he picked up his first win as Walsall head coach - dubbing it the perfect early birthday present.
The Saddlers hung on in the final moments at home to Forest Green to win 2-1 - a first victory in 15 games for the club and Dutton’s first in 14 matches since becoming manager.
“I’m absolutely delighted,” Dutton said.
“Delighted for myself because it’s been shameful for me, it’s been tough.
“I couldn’t even look my dog in the eye, never mind a human being. I’ve found it tough for sure.
“But I’m most delighted for the boys because they deserve that win.
“Look back at the fixtures we’ve had, Stevenage, Cambridge and Harrogate should have been wins.
“That wasn’t the greatest performance from the boys today but they got the win and that’s the main thing.”
Dutton turns 36 on Monday and when asked if there was any better early birthday present, he added: “No. I’m wishing for two things, a Walsall win and a new haircut. I’m halfway there.
“That was my wish and I got it, thankfully.”
Rory Holden and James Clarke got the goals to hand Walsall that much-needed victory and Dutton was full of praise for the influential duo.
He said: “James Clarke has been monumental since he’s come into the side. A colossus.
“He’s had the same impact defensively as what Rory Holden has had offensively.
“We’ve won nine games this season and eight of them have been with Rory Holden in the team. It’s not rocket science is it, if you get your best players out there you generally win football matches.”
