Match Reaction: Clarke 'Frustrated' Following Walsall's One-All Draw With Newport County Match Reaction: Clarke 'Frustrated' Following Walsall's One-All Draw With Newport County
Posted by: Bescot Banter

Match Reaction: Clarke 'Frustrated' Following Walsall's One-All Draw With Newport County

Darrell Clarke spoke to the press following the Saddlers' League Two clash with table-topping Newport County.
Speaking after his side had held league leaders Newport County to a one-all draw at Rodney Parade, Darrell Clarke was keen to offer his support to first-choice goalkeeper Liam Roberts, after an error from the 'keeper led to the Exiles' equaliser.

Coming under two minutes after Saddlers striker Elijah Adebayo had netted his fifth goal of the season, under pressure goalkeeper Liam Roberts fumbled Scott Twine's long-distance free-kick, gifting Michael Flynn's side a goal of their own.

Clarke, who saw his side lose their four all-competition outings heading into Tuesday's clash, insisted he and his team will offer their support Roberts but also hinted that summer signing Jack Rose could be between the sticks when the Saddlers return to action against Stevenage next week.

Speaking to the assembled media, Darrell said; "I’m not going to make scapegoats of my players, it’s an obvious error isn’t it.

"We’ve had too many of those from individuals during the course of this season. Like anything in this footballing world you have to pick yourself up from the canvas.

"I have to do it many times and players have to do that when they make those sort of errors.

"We’ll rally around him and give him the support and you put that right with your next performance, when and if he gets his next chance."

When asked whether former Southampton stopper Rose is in line to start against Stevenage, Clarke continued; "I’ll make those calls but he’s one of our players and has made some good saves this season.

"We’ll rally around him and then whoever I pick in goal the next game, they need to make sure their performance is spot on."

In taking a point back to the Banks's, the Saddlers became the first team to take any points from Rodney Parade so far this season and, despite the welcome point, Clarke admitted he frustrated as he believes his side should have taken all three points.

Darrell added; "Yes, certainly. I was looking for a reaction after the disappointing performance in the second half against Cheltenham.

"It was the first time the lads had caved in this season. Then tonight the work-rate and endeavour, we limited them to chances and probably had the better chances through the course of the game.

"I’m pleased with that but very frustrated and disappointed we haven’t made it three points. I thought the press was very good.

"We worked really hard. I was looking for a good reaction from my boys against top of the table, who are flying at the minute.

"The response was good but it’s certainly the most frustrating spell for me as a manager."
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