Earlier this afternoon, Walsall Football Club's reserve side made the short trip north to take on Port Vale in the second group game of the 'Final Third Development League Cup'.
The Saddlers took the lead in the first half, thanks to a Reece Flanagan strike, with the Centre of Excellence graduate going on to grab a second goal during the second half, securing all three points for the Saddlers.
Sam Mantom played just over an hour of the match and showed no signs of injury as he was replaced.
Sam Mantom played just over an hour of the match and showed no signs of injury as he was replaced.
At the beginning of October Walsall drew 1-1 with Stoke City in their opening group game, whilst Port Vale defeated Shrewsbury Town 3-0 to put them at the top of the table.
Following the full-time whistle, reserves team manager Richard O'Kelly spoke to saddlers.co.uk about the match, he said; "Our application and attitude was first-class. Port Vale fielded a young side but they were very competitive and made us work hard. We had the majority of possession and chances and were deserved winners in the end as Reece Flanagan scored twice.
"I was absolutely delighted with our organisation; we were ready for the situation and showed a real determination, which was pleasing to see.
"There was a great attitude from all involved; Sam Mantom played for an hour and really enjoyed it, whilst Craig Fagan played his part and used his experience well. He is a very good professional who I have known for a long time.
"In the end it was a good afternoon's work for us."
PORT VALE XI: Pickering, Clarke, Morris, Reeves, Smith, Greenidge, Steele, Lloyd, Kapend, Campion, Haughton
Subs: Faulkner, Bergin, Ede, Turner, Gibbons, Attrell
WALSALL XI: MacGillivray, Kinsella, Holden, Preston, Henry; Flanagan, Clifford, Mantom, Morris; Bakayoko, Fagan
Subs: Jezeph; Heath, Delaney, K.Rowley