Source: PA
Hutchings breaths a sigh of relief
Walsall boss Chris Hutchings breathed a huge sigh of relief after his League One strugglers hung on for a 1-1 draw in the FA Cup first round at Fleetwood.
The Saddlers had a dream start when Matt Richards scored after four minutes but Town captain Steve McNulty missed a penalty on the half hour and the visitors had Ryan McGivern sent off before the break.
Substitute Jamie Mullan levelled five minutes after the restart and veteran keeper Jimmy Walker made a string of fine saves in the closing stages to earn his side a replay.
"I can't argue with the effort and commitment we showed," said Hutchings. "Effort, determination, character, desire - all those things, everyone of the squad has showed .
"We were hanging on in their but we were resilient and Walker made a few good saves. We couldn't have asked for a better start and the boys responded fantastically to the red card.
"We are still in the hat and that is the most important thing. Fleetwood are a good side and we knew it was going to be difficult. We had a little bit of luck at times but you need it when you are in the cup."
