Oldham vs Walsall Match Recap - Dec 10, 2025

Walsall's Title Charge Continues as Oldham Stumbles Again

Walsall's resilience shines through as they secure a narrow victory against Oldham, further solidifying their position at the top of League Two. The match at Boundary Park showcased the contrasting fortunes of both teams, with Walsall continuing their impressive run while Oldham remains mired in a relegation battle.

Walsall's defensive solidity has been a hallmark of their success this season. They have now allowed just four goals in their last five matches, a testament to their organized backline and disciplined approach. This match was no different, as they managed to keep Oldham at bay despite the home side's attempts to assert themselves. The visitors' ability to absorb pressure and counter effectively has been crucial in their rise to the top of the table.

Oldham's recent form has been troubling, with only one win in their last five outings. Their struggles were evident once again, as they failed to capitalize on their chances. Despite outshooting Walsall in total shots (5 to 4), they could not convert those opportunities into goals. This inability to finish has plagued Oldham throughout the season, and it was on full display against a Walsall side that thrives on defensive discipline.

Daniel Kanu emerged as the hero for Walsall, continuing his scoring streak with another goal. His performance has been pivotal for the team, as he now boasts seven goals this season. Kanu's ability to find the net consistently has provided Walsall with the offensive edge they need to maintain their title challenge. His goal in this match not only secured three points but also reinforced his status as a key player in Walsall's attacking setup.

Oldham's midfield struggled to control the game, reflecting their recent inconsistency. Players like Ryan Woods and Luke Hannant were unable to impose themselves effectively, leading to a lack of creativity and urgency in their play. This has been a recurring theme for Oldham, who have often found themselves unable to dictate the tempo against more organized opponents. Their pass accuracy of 52% compared to Walsall's 58% highlights their difficulties in maintaining possession and building meaningful attacks.

Walsall's tactical setup proved effective once again, with their 3-1-4-2 formation allowing for fluid transitions between defense and attack. The midfield trio of Vincent Harper, Charlie Lakin, and Lewis Warrington provided the necessary support for both defensive duties and offensive thrusts. Their ability to link up play and create opportunities was evident, even if the final execution was sometimes lacking.

Oldham's defensive frailties were exposed yet again, particularly in set-piece situations. Despite having a physical presence in their backline, they struggled to deal with Walsall's aerial threats. This vulnerability has been a significant concern for Oldham throughout the season, contributing to their poor defensive record. The fact that they led in fouls (10 to 5) indicates a lack of composure under pressure, often resorting to fouling rather than maintaining discipline.

The match statistics reveal a stark contrast between the two sides' recent performances. Walsall's ability to grind out results, even when not dominating possession, has been key to their success. They have shown resilience and adaptability, traits that are essential for any title contender. In contrast, Oldham's inability to convert chances into goals continues to haunt them, leaving them vulnerable in crucial moments.

Looking ahead, Walsall will face Shrewsbury next, aiming to extend their lead at the top of the table. With momentum on their side and players like Kanu in form, they will be confident heading into that fixture. Meanwhile, Oldham must regroup quickly before their next match against Crawley Town if they hope to turn around their fortunes and avoid slipping further into the relegation zone.

This match serves as another chapter in the ongoing narrative of both teams' seasons. For Walsall, it is a continuation of their title push; for Oldham, it is a stark reminder of the challenges they face as they fight for survival. The contrasting trajectories of these two clubs highlight the unpredictable nature of football and the fine margins that can define a season.