A young Burton Albion reserve team were beaten by a strong Walsall reserve side at St George’s Park this afternoon.
The Brewers did take the lead but Walsall hit back with a goal in each half to beat Burton Albion 2-1.Walsall had the better opportunities throughout the game and the Albion have goalkeeper Harry Campbell to thank as he pulled off a few outstanding saves, the first coming just six minutes into the game when Makris ran though on goal but the Brewers stopper was off his line quickly to deny him.
Charlie Gatter is currently on loan at Boston United, but is still eligible to play for the Albion and he led the back line brilliantly as well as blocking Frank Moussa’s shot from inside the area to deny what looked like a certain goal.
Campbell was apart once again as Kieran Morris broke down the right but his left-footed shot was saved well by the young goalkeeper.
The deadlock was broken four minutes before half time as Marcus Harness shrugged off two defenders before racing at goal and slotting into the bottom corner.
Burton Albion’s lead lasted just two minutes as Kieran Morris lined up a shot from 20 yards which sailed through a sea of bodies before beating Harry Campbell at his far post to level the game.
HT: Burton Albion FC 1-1 Walsall FC
The second half was one that probably won’t live long in the memory for either side. Marks looked the biggest threat for Walsall as he slid in at the back post to get on the end of a Morris cross but his effort flew well over the bar.
The Saddlers took the lead with 20 minutes to go as Campbell once again pulled off a great save but the ball only fell to Makris who tapped into an empty net to put Walsall in front for the first time.
James Harrison was introduced as a substitute and had his first chance within minutes of coming on, as he latched on to a poor back pass before rounding the goalkeeper but the angle was too tight for a shot.
Liam Kinsella scored against Burton Albion last season at the Banks’ Stadium and he nearly did so again when he scuffed a shot from 12 yards but luckily Jack Hallahan was on the line to clear the ball.
FT: Burton Albion 1-2 Walsall FC