Harambee Stars winger Vincent Harper played a part in Walsall’s impressive 1-0 win over Premier League side Aston Villa in a pre-season friendly on Wednesday night at the Pallet-Track Bescot Stadium.Harper was introduced in the 65th minute as part of nine changes made by head coach Mat Sadler in a go. Follow our WhatsApp channel for more newsThe 24-year-old, who joined Walsall a few weeks ago after leaving Exeter City, brought energy and defensive solidity as a wing-back, helping the Saddlers see out a memorable win.##NAJAVA_MECA_9019145##Walsall started as the stronger of the two sides, creating early chances. Mason Hancock had an effort blocked in the 10th minute, while Charlie Lakin tested Villa keeper Joe Gauci after a wayward clearance.The hosts eventually found the breakthrough in the 38th minute. Jamie Jellis fired from the edge of the box, with the deflection landing perfectly for Harrison Burke, who tucked it home for the eventual match-winner.In the second half, Walsall continued to push forward. Aaron Pressley’s header was saved, while Jellis blazed over from range. Then came a wave of nine substitutions, which included Harper.Aldrine Kibet completes move to LaLiga clubVilla came close to equalizing, with Lewis Dobbin and Charlie Pavey both going close, but goalkeeper Sam Hornby stood tall.Walsall boss Sadler was happy with the performance against a top-tier side but downplayed its significance, stating it is just another pre-season duel.STARS ABROAD: Okumu on target as Reims maintain perfect pre-season form“You always prefer to win games. When you play against such good players, such a good team and such a good football club, you are very aware of how that can go,” he said.”I have to be pleased that we did win the game for sure, but it is pre-season. We are here to make sure no one gets injured; we are here to get our guys as much time playing.””I do not need to convince anybody”: McCarthy responds to striker’s exit from Harambee Stars squadHe also praised the home crowd and the team’s overall effort.”We are playing in front of a full crowd at home, which, for pre-season games, does not happen. Most important thing for us is that we played, got minutes, we upped it a little bit in terms of half of the group.”Three Kenyan referees appointed to officiate CHANSadler added that squad rotation will continue as they build fitness and chemistry ahead of the new season.”We will reverse that (in the next game), and the job is just to try and get as many guys through as possible. Tonight, that was good to get so many good performances and good relationships.”REPORTS: McCarthy calls up Kenya Police midfielder, drops 5 from Harambee Stars squad
