Port Vale v Walsall: Prediction, Tips and Odds

Port Vale play host to Walsall in a huge showdown of the top two in League Two at lunchtime on Saturday.

The Saddlers have had special moments against higher division teams in the cups, winning 3-2 at home to Huddersfield Town in the EFL Cup second round and 2-1 at home to Bolton Wanderers in the FA Cup first round.

They have been ultra-consistent in the league, allowing them to stay inside the top four since mid-September.

However, they will be prepared for a tough challenge against Vale, who have led the division since mid-October and who will be determined to hold on to top spot.

The Valiants go into the game against Walsall with a one-point advantage although their opponents have played one game less.

Port Vale v Walsall betting tips and predictions

Walsall draw no bet - 5/6

Walsall passed a major test on Tuesday by winning 3-2 at home to Notts County and they can cap off a superb few days by defeating Vale in the Potteries.

It has been a year of impressive progress for the Saddlers, who finished in a creditable 11th place last term and who have kicked on since the summer.

They are the league’s top scorers with 33 goals and their xG for (33.09) is the best in the division.

Walsall also know how to defend and have conceded only five away goals from eight fourth-tier road trips.

Vale will be in for a tough game and they were not at their best on Tuesday when drawing 1-1 away to Cheltenham Town.

Ronan Curtis’ 94th minute goal rescued a midweek point for Darren Moore’s side and kept them top of the standings.

That said, Vale have won only one of their last six matches and their apparent dip in performance leaves them vulnerable against such a strong opponent.

Walsall have gone nine league games unbeaten since a bizarre 6-2 loss at home to Fleetwood Town and they can get the three points they need to displace their hosts from the summit.

Nathan Lowe to score the first goal - 13/2

Walsall are strong in all areas but their front two - Jamille Matt and Nathan Lowe - have been massive contributors.

Matt has helped himself to five league goals and his powerful hold-up play has complimented the more mobile Lowe, who has excelled since his loan arrival from Stoke City.

Lowe tops his club’s scoring charts with nine league goals and he looks an overpriced 13/2 shot to strike the opening blow this weekend.

Most goals in the second half - Evens

If Walsall are to win the game, it is likely that they will do most of the damage in the second half.

The Saddlers are an extremely fit side and often finish their games in the ascendancy. Of their 33 league goals this season, 23 (69.70 per cent) have come after the break.

And they might need to rely on a strong second-half showing against Vale, who are likely to be on the front foot in the early stages as they seek to energise a large home crowd.

Getting through the early stages unscathed will be a key aspect for Walsall as they strive to quieten the home supporters and grow into the contest.

They have registered seven consecutive first half clean sheets and another solid opening 45 minutes could set them up for the win.

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Port Vale v Walsall odds

Port Vale - 13/8
Draw - 23/10
Walsall - 13/8

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This article was written by a partner sports writer via Spotlight Sports Group. All odds displayed on this page were correct at the time of writing and are subject to withdrawal or change at any time.