Harambee Stars defender Vincent Harper marked a triumphant return to Walsall FC’s starting lineup as the Saddlers edged Crewe Alexandra 1-0 at the Pallet-Track Bescot Stadium on Friday, extending their unbeaten run to five league games in English Football League 2.
The solitary goal of the match came from Jamille Matt just before half-time, ending a nine-month wait for his first league goal of the season.
Matt capitalized on Aden Flint’s saved effort, tapping the ball into an open net following a well-worked free-kick from Evan Weir.
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Harambee Stars defender Vincent Harper returns as Walsall FC secures narrow win over Crewe Alexandra
The strike not only gave Walsall the lead but also secured their fourth consecutive Boxing Day victory, maintaining their position atop the League Two standings.
Manager Mat Sadler made four changes to the starting XI from last week’s draw against Notts County.
Harper returned to fortify the defense alongside Rico Browne, while Dan Cox replaced Jid Okeke on the bench.
The midfield also saw adjustments, with Jamie Jellis starting alongside Brandon Comley, replacing Charlie Lakin and Lewis Warrington. These changes appeared to pay dividends as Walsall recorded a second consecutive clean sheet.
The match began with early intensity from the Saddlers. In the ninth minute, Comley’s long-range effort tested Crewe goalkeeper Sam Waller, who managed a solid save.
Crewe responded swiftly, nearly taking the lead just three minutes later when Calum Agius’ header threatened to sneak past Aden Flint, who expertly cleared off the line.
Despite these moments, the first half remained largely cagey, with few clear-cut chances until Matt’s decisive goal.
In the second half, Walsall continued to press. Connor Barrett had two notable attempts, first breaking down the right wing shortly after the restart and later combining with Albert Adomah to set up Aaron Pressley, though both efforts went astray.
Crewe, resilient until the final whistle, launched multiple set-piece attacks in added time, but Walsall’s defense, anchored by Harper and Flint, held firm.
The victory consolidates Walsall’s position at the summit of League Two, with six points from the last seven games highlighting their strong festive form.
Harper’s return to the starting eleven not only shored up the backline but also added confidence to the team as they look to maintain momentum heading into the new year.
Walsall FC Starting XI: Roberts; Barrett, Flint, Harper, Browne; Comley, Jellis; Finnigan, Weir, Matt, Kanu.
Subs: Hornby, Cox, Okeke, Pressley, Adomah, Clarke