August 2011

They boys from the Banks’s have suffered more than most in recent cup competitions, losing nine consecutive games against league opposition in the knock-out format of the game.

Last season it was Chesterfield in the trophy, but against a similarly classy League 2 outfit in Shrewsbury Town, the West Midlands men weren’t to be denied.

Their enthralling 2-1 win over the Shrews – featuring a penalty miss and two phenomenal saves by home keeper David Grof – was just what the home fans were desperate for, in a trophy they are equally desperate to do well in.

Peter Earp and Janet Treadwell said there was no reason why Walsall couldn’t now enjoy a sustained run in the competition.

Peter said: “We are taking the trophy more seriously than ever because we are so keen to do well in it.”

Janet said: “We watch Chasetown occasionally when we can’t get to see Walsall, so we know what a great cup run can do for a club.

“They have enjoyed some phenomenal successes in recent years which their fans are still talking about now. We want to have our own run to savour.”

Adam Guest, pictured with family Linda Staines, her son Kian and Aidan and Alex Geddes, said: “We have lost nine on the bounce in cup competitions to league teams, so to get through in the trophy is a big thing for us.

“If we can secure a top 10 finish in the league this season we will be happy with that, so a good cup run to supplement this would be wonderful.”

Debbie and Richard Gaunt said: “Our manager Dean Smith has done a wonderful job here. Finishing in the play-offs might be a bit ambitious, but it is something we should aspire towards.

“Deano has brought the fun back to the team. They seem to be playing with some freedom and there seems to be a really close team spirit.”

Richard and his little lad Kyle Evans agreed, and said the club had come a long, long way since Dean Smith took charge last season.

Richard said: “The dressing room is harmonious and Deano has brought some great people into the set-up here. We are all delighted with the progress he is making.

“A top 10 finish would suit us fine, so a good run in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy would be an ideal accompaniment.”

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