Kinsella: ex-Walsall

By Nick Blackbourn
August 20 2009

Charlton take on Walsall on Saturday as the home side try to make it four wins out of four and strengthen their promotion credentials. Our own Mark Kinsella has a strong Walsall connection; he ended his playing career and began his coaching career at the Bescott Stadium.

I think this is a big game for Charlton. The first couple of games of the season really set the tone for the season. (Look at Dowie's first few games in the Premier League.) As the table starts to take shape we really want to be in the promotion pack as it gives the club, fans and players themselves the belief in their ability and high expectations of themselves.

Every year someones talks of creating a 'Fortress Valley'. This year it is Rob Elliot, (http://www.cafc.co.uk/newsview.ink?nid=34637&newstype=n) but hopefully it will actually happen. We have shown we can compete on the road, if we can count on home wins then maybe there is really cause for optimism this season (if there are no injuries!).

Defensively we are looking strong; the new boys have settled in well. Going forward we look slick; Bailey, Jonjo, Burton, Sam all have goal threat supported by Racon and Semedo.

I am going to back us for a 2 - 1 win against the Saddlers, with Sam to open his account and Burton to bag another. Confidence is building and behind a Valley crowd I think we will be too strong for Walsall.

The perfect start continues?