Quietly, that's how the game started today, both players and fans. Neither team seemed very up for it, with an equal share of possession but nothing penetrating from either side.
The first half the saddlers didn't look bad until just after the half hour mark when Jimmy Walker caught the ball outside the box.
It was an unquestionable decision, and Lee Beevers took over in goal following Dean Smith's decision not to put Grof on the bench.
The resulting free kick (slightly predictably) from Dons man Lewington, went straight into the top corner to put MK in the lead.
Not long after, ex Walsall man Jabo Ibehre knocked in a tap in to make it 2 in controversial circumstances with a widely contested linesman decision.
Half time Walsall 0 MK Dons 2
Half time, Dean Smith earned himself a red card, and the second half in the stand.
Walsall started quite well, a Taundry free kick being deflected over the bar.
Manny Smith nodded just over before Claude Gnakpa hit both posts with a drive, that ultimately somehow stayed out.
Paterson looked a threat throughout, and had a long drive tipped over by the MK Dons keeper.
Last few minutes dribbled away with Dons having a bulk of possession but failing to threaten.
RESULT: Walsall 0 Milton Keynes Dons 2 (Lewington 35' Ibehre 45')
Deano's decision to leave the bench without a backup Keeper, was definitely a bad decision in hindsight, and will doubtlessly leave a lot of fans calling for his head, but in my opinion, first half notwithstanding, second half I think Walsall defied all beliefs and gave a display to be proud of.
By: Lee Hale