Tom Knowles missed the target with Walsall’s best chance before Owen Evans denied Josh Eppiah a winner at the death as defences won out on an attritional afternoon. Cobblers remain fourth in League Two but are now just a point behind third-placed Carlisle with a game in hand. Here are our player ratings from Sixfields…
5. Akin Odimayo
Given more freedom to attack at wing-back but there were a few too many astray passes. Defended well though and he will be a big loss should his hamstring injury prove serious... 7 Photo: Pete Norton
6. Ali Koiki
A tale of two halves. Pushed high and wide in the first and offered an outlet down the left. One sweet cross almost saw McWilliams turn home. Downhill from there though as he was booked for dissent, then gave away a silly free-kick before being needlessly sent off with virtually the last act of the game. His weak header back to King also presented Walsall with their best chance of the game... 5 Photo: Pete Norton
7. Jack Sowerby
Excellent first-half when virtually everything seemed to go through him. Recycled the ball and kept possession well. Couldn't exert the same level of control during a second period in which Cobblers struggled to gain a foothold... 7.5 Photo: Pete Norton
8. Shaun McWilliams
Plays well most weeks and especially when Sowerby is alongside him in the middle. It was scrappy and bitty throughout but he tried to inject some life into Town's play. Did well to last 70 minutes... 7 Photo: Pete Norton