By Jake Jones
Walsall head into their encounter with Blackpool at the Bescot Stadium following a 1-1 draw with Shrewsbury last time out. Although higher in the table, Blackpool are also coming into the game on the back of a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Southend United.
With the Saddlers languishing in 16th they will be seeking a victory to steadily rebuild their season. Turkish attacking midfielder Erhun Oztumer will provide their goal threat with him currently scoring five for the season.
Walsall played 3-5-2 last time out and struggled for a potent goal threat even with two up front. So far in the 12 league games the Saddlers have averaged just over a goal per game, something which will be something they need to improve on to begin to climb out of the basement of League 1. Of the 48 games they have played against each other, Walsall take it 24 wins to 12 losses.
Having slumped in recent weeks after a fast start, which saw Blackpool take 10 points from the first five games, the Seasiders have suffered a couple of heavy away defeats. Manager Lee Bowyer will be looking to striker Kyle Vassell to continue his early season form and fire the Seasiders to victory.
Like Walsall, Blackpool also played 3-5-2 in their last league fixture meaning that it is likely that the game will be scrappy and will be a battle of the two midfields. The carry a defensive advantage into this match, giving up just over 1 goal per match. If the Blackpool defence holds, goals could be hard to come by for the Saddlers at home.