Walsall 0 Norwich City 0

Last updated : 19 April 2003 By Footymad Previewer

Walsall goalkeeper James Walker frustrated play-off-chasing Norwich City with another impressive display at the Bescot Stadium.

Walker's early heroics ensured that Norwich did not collect the win that they badly needed to keep alive their hopes of reaching the play-offs for a second successive season.

He also stood firm in the closing stages when the Canaries launched an assault on the Walsall goal only to be further frustrated by Walker who tipped an 87th minute free-kick from Phil Mulryne over the bar.

Walker came to Walsall's rescue after nine minutes when he prevented Ian Roper conceding an embarrassing own goal. In his attempt to clear a cross from David Healy, Roper sliced the ball goalwards and was relieved to see Walker palm it away to safety.

Two minutes later the Saddlers keeper bravely dived at the feet of Darel Russell after Zema Abbey had headed a cross shot from Steen Nedergaard goalwards.

The home side should really have cashed in on their goalkeeper's heroics but Jorge Leitao squandered a golden chance to break the deadlock.

The Portuguese striker was released by his strike partner Junior in the 21st minute and raced towards goal after nutmegging Norwich skipper Malky Mackay, but Robert Green smothered the ball at his feet.

Walsall took control after the break, as Junior sliced narrowly wide from a Carl Robinson pass after 47 minutes and was then denied a goal by a saving tackle from Adam Drury three minutes later.

The Brazilian was a constant menace to the City defence and he forced Green into more evasive action after 62 minutes when he just beat the Brazilian to a Vinny Samways free kick.

In a last ditch bid to try and collect a badly needed win, Norwich boss Nigel Worthington sent-on teenage striker Ryan Jarvis who became the club's youngest ever player.

But the rising star had little chance to make an impact as Norwich were forced to settle for a share of the spoils.