SHEFFIELD UNITED v WALSALL
THE SADDLERS stepped out for our second away game in three days as we locked horns with Sheffield United.
There was a slight delay to the kick-off due to a technical fault with the Bramall Lane fire alarm system.
It took a while for this game to catch light with neither ‘keeper tested in the opening quarter-of-an-hour in what was a decidedly cagey opening.
A 16th minute corner for the home side saw Conor Coady guide the ball goalwards only for Andy Butler to clear off the line.
The home side looking a threat from set-pieces as Stephen McGinn whips the ball dangerously in but it evades everyone on its way wide.
Walsall looking to get our passing game together and cause problems for our hosts who have started the season slowly.
After a free-kick from former Blade, Andy Taylor, was easily cleared, James Baxendale tried his luck with a low strike from distance that went well wide.
With half-time approaching, Milan Lalkovic was involved in the action at both ends of the field as firstly a flick on by Westcarr almost saw him capital upon a weak back-pass and then his challenge on Aidy White drew loud appeals for a penalty, but the referee was unimpressed.
In stoppage time at the end of the half, a penalty for a handball by James Chambers converted by Chris Porter.
HALF-TIME: Sheffield United 1 Walsall 0
The Saddlers level straight away in the second period when Baxendale did well out wide on the right and his cross was perfect for Westcarr to head home the equaliser.
There were a couple of penalty appeals in quick succession for the home side as Walsall had to defend in numbers.
Dean Smith made his first change with Ashley Hemmings on for Milan Lalkovic as the 354 travelling fans made themselves heard.
The Saddlers were patient in their build-up and a stinging strike from Hemmings was pushed out by the ‘keeper as the loose ball was cleared.
There was a further change as Romaine Sawyers came on for Baxendale.
A deft header from Jamie Murphy crept just wide for the home side as the clock ticked down.
A late change saw Troy Hewitt replace Nicky Featherstone, who has done well on his return to the starting line-up.
In the end neither side were able to add to the scoring as honours ended even at 1-1.
FULL-TIME: Sheffield United 1 Walsall 1