Walsall's struggle to score at home continued despite a glut of chances as they slipped to a 1-0 defeat against Fleetwood in League Two. Mark Helm's 15th-minute strike proved enough for the Cod Army, leaving the Saddlers six without a win at the Bescot and having netted just twice in that run, a dismal sequence that dates back to Boxing Day.
Fleetwood took their solitary chance and then defended for their lives, withstanding sustained home pressure across both halves. Walsall created the better and more frequent openings but found goalkeeper Jay Lynch and the woodwork in their way time and again.
Helm Pounces Early
Referee Steven Copeland played a smart advantage to allow Ethan Ennis to cut back for Helm, who swept in from close range via Sam Hornby's raised glove. It was a clinical moment that gave the visitors a lead they would cling to for the remainder of the contest.