In the latest of his regular columns, Scott Brotherton takes a look at tomorrow's all important Sky Bet League One clash between Walsall and Colchester United, which is quickly becoming a 'must win' for both sides.Saturday's clash with Colchester is almost an early season six-pointer. That fact alone highlights how poorly the Saddlers and the U's have started the campaign.
I was on the verge of labelling the Scunthorpe game a six-pointer as well. The Iron were in the relegation zone until they leap-frogged Walsall with the 2-1 win.
But after the defeat at Glanford Park, the game against Colchester seems all the more important. United have been very poor so far, and if the Saddlers are unable beat them then I do fear for us this season.
Goals are probably still the main concern. Netting three times in five games is reminiscent of last year's troubles, however it's even more worrying when all three have come from Tom Bradshaw.
Young Bradshaw has been one if the few positives so far. He is lethal in the box and his three goals have all been poacher's finishes. The backwards flicked header against Scunthorpe was particularly impressive and showed real natural ability.
There are plenty of attacking options at Dean Smith's disposal, possibly the most the manager has had for years, and there will be more available as the injury crisis clears up. None the forwards seem to be clicking with one another at the moment though.
And the Saddlers boss will have no choice but to tinker with the front four or five players again on Saturday. Romaine Sawyers is on international duty with St. Kitts and Nevis in the Caribbean, and played against St. Lucia in the week. Meanwhile Ashley Grimes is out for slightly less glamorous reasons - he has a calf strain.
We could expect an attacking four of Forde, Manset, Bradshaw and Baxendale, but Smith could also give Kieron Morris or Mal Benning a chance on the wing. It will be a different lineup to any we have seen before.
Maybe a change is just what the team needs. The shake up might yield a first league win and one that Walsall desperately need.
You feel that the pieces are there but the team really hasn't gelled yet. Fans understand it will never be easy with a brand new frontline, but patience only lasts so long and it is about time they got some points on the board.
By: Scott Brotherton.
