Darrell Clarke Unhappy as Walsall 'Shoot Themselves in the Foot' Darrell Clarke Unhappy as Walsall 'Shoot Themselves in the Foot'

Darrell Clarke Unhappy as Walsall 'Shoot Themselves in the Foot'

Darrell Clarke has shared his views following Saturday's two-all draw with Harrogate Town.
Walsall manager Darrell Clarke has spoken of his disappointment as his team had to bounce back from going 2-1 behind to grab a point against recently-promoted Harrogate Town on Saturday afternoon.

Clarke, who saw his side win their opening League Two game of the season against Grimsby Town last weekend, believes his team entered a poor defensive display during the first-half, as they reached the break a goal behind.

Walsall opened the scoring via Rory Holden just four minutes into the match but fell behind as Aaron Martin (32') and Jack Muldoon (42') netted for Harrogate as they looked to add to their opening-day hammering of Southend United.

The Saddlers were able to get back on level terms with just nine minutes of the second-half remaining as Josh Gordon was alert to slam home the rebound after his initial penalty kick was saved.

Manager Clarke, who is looking to build upon last season's mid-table finish, was pleased with the overall response during the second forty-five, admitting he'd have probably taken a point, retaining the Saddlers' unbeaten start to the season.

Speaking to the assembled media, Darrell said; "I’m very disappointed with our defensive first-half performance to be honest with you. Really disappointed in our decision-making with the ball.

"We got a great start from a well-worked set piece and then didn’t build from there. We started going too long and direct, not enough players showing for the ball.

"Defensively I thought we got a bit bullied. We certainly shot ourselves in the foot in the first half. The second-half, I thought, was a very good response.

"There was only one team and perhaps if we’d got the goal early we might have gone on and won the game. We’ve had chances and been on the front foot.

"I want to win every football match but I suppose if you’d offered me four points after the first two league games, I’d have snapped your hand off."
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