Hughes goal sinks Saddlers

A well-taken Lee Hughes goal gave Notts County their first win in nine league games as they beat Walsall 1-0 at the Banks's Stadium.

Hughes turned quickly on to a header from Ben Burgess and buried a low drive for his 10th goal of the season.

Walsall offered little threat in the first half, with their first shot at goal being a tame effort from Jon Macken.

Saddlers goalkeeper James Walker, celebrating his record 530th appearance for the club on his first home game since breaking Colin Harrison's record, had to go off after half-time with a hamstring injury, but replacement David Grof was rarely troubled.

Walsall had a goal by George Bowerman controversially ruled out by referee Dean Whitestone for a Manny Smith foul on Stuart Nelson in the 75th minute.

The Saddlers have now won only once in 15 league games.