Walsall claim comeback win at sorry Salford

Walsall came from behind to secure an impressive 2-1 League Two victory at stuttering Salford.

Mat Sadler’s improving visitors deserved their second-straight win as they extended their unbeaten league run to four matches, while the Ammies have now lost four of their last five league games.

Salford went ahead after 15 minutes when Matt Smith bundled the ball home from close range following Luke Bolton’s angled cross into the box.

The hosts came close to a second when debutant Declan John fired in a volley which was blocked by a defender.

Walsall’s first decent opportunity came after 35 minutes, but Isaac Hutchinson struck a 20-yard free-kick disappointingly over the top.

Seconds before the interval, Walsall goalkeeper Owen Evans produced a superb fingertip save to deny Stevie Mallan.

Walsall levelled just before the hour mark when Freddie Draper rose to meet Oisin McEntee’s cross before powering home an unstoppable header.

The visitors then notched a second with 15 minutes left.

Draper’s initial strike was beaten away by goalkeeper Alex Cairns, but McEntee was perfectly placed to ram home the rebound.

Evans saved superbly from substitute Marcus Dackers and Bolton late on but Walsall hung on.