Cats are good team – but we deserved to beat them

Delighted Walsall boss Dean Keates heaped praise on his players after the Saddlers’ “deserved” FA Cup second-round replay win at Sunderland.

Liam Kinsella’s superb second-half strike secured a 1-0 success at the Stadium of the Light – and a thirdround trip to Championship side Bolton.

“We’re delighted,” said Keates. “It’s something we deserved, definitely.

“Without the ball, we were organised and disciplined. We broke and there were some phases of play where we kept the ball and dominated possession.

“Over the three games, there’s not been much between both teams.

“We were disappointed we didn’t go in one or two up after the first half. In the second half we didn’t have too many chances but it was very much a football match, both teams trying to play.

“We got what we deserved and that’s a cup win and a game now at Bolton.”

The two sides have now met each other three times inside a couple of weeks, with Sunderland failing to get the better of the saddlers on every occasion.

The Black Cats rescued a point in the League One showdown thanks to a late equaliser, having been 2-0 down and reduced to 10 men, before the sides drew 1-1 in the original cup tie.

“They’re a good team. That’s why they’re at the top end of our league,” added Keates.

“Over the three games, there’s not been much between both teams.

“With a little bit of luck in the other games, we would have got three points then.

“We’re delighted with our performance and being in the next round.”

Meanwhile Kinsella, son of former republic of Ireland midfielder Mark, is attracting attention from a number of Championship clubs.

The 22-year-old, who can operate at right-back or in midfield, is out of contract at the end of the season.