17/08/13 - Walsall 1 - 1 Notts County

Saturday involved the second match of the season for The Full 92 Travel Club and a trip to the Banks's Stadium in Walsall. The Saddlers were taking on the oldest club in the League Notts County. Walsall have started well this season so I imagined it was going to be a good match.

The Banks's stadium is just off the M6 at Wednesbury and is visible from the motorway. It's easy to get to and is situated next to a retail park so there is plenty of parking around. I parked in a car park which was just £2 so I was happy to pay that for the time I was there. Had a mooch around in the club shop and taking in the sights of their "Wall of Fame".

I paid £18 for the lower tier of the Tile Choice stand which is the largest stand facing the M6 and is where most of the hardcore Saddlers fans are behind the goal. The other 3 stands are all pretty small but overall the stadium is relatively new so it's not in bad nick for a League 1 ground.


There was only a crowd of over 4000 there so it wasn't very busy, however it did feel like there were more as it had a decent atmosphere. The home fans began their usual banterous songs but the Notts County fans were relatively quiet. Maybe it's because I was in amongst the home fans that it all sounded a bit louder but it goes to show that only with a small crowd you can generate a good atmosphere.

The food areas weren't brilliant and cost wise were pretty standard. The one part that did impress me was the little bar out the back which actually feels like you're in a little pub. I liked that a lot!

As for the match itself, it was a fairly average first half with both teams having chances but going in at half time 0-0. However the second half started a little better. Walsall took the lead from a quick break and a great strike but they failed to capitalise on another couple of chances to make it two.

They paid for this as with about 20 mins to go County equalised and this shifted the balance of power as after that they had another few chances and l
ooked the more likely to win it. Squeaky bum time for the home fans in the last five as County scored what they thought was a winner only for it to be ruled out for offside!

Overall, a good day out. Better match than the Bury game, nicer venue however slightly let down by the drizzly weather. But hey it's the Midlands and I don't suppose you can help that!

To see the official Sky match report click here.