SAINTS' youngsters were beaten 1-0 away from home to Walsall in the Leasing.com Trophy.

It’s two defeats on the bounce in the competition for Radhi Jaidi’s side after they lost their opening match to Forest Green Rovers.

The Under-23s boss spoke about the importance of registering their first win in the Leasing.com Trophy and picked a strong side for Tuesday night's encounter.

Despite the likes of Callum Slattery, Kayne Ramsay and Jake Vokins all starting, Jaidi’s side fell victim to a Dan Scarr goal on the verge of half time.

Saints started the match brightly and had two good opportunities to try and take the lead.

The first came through midfielder Slattery, with the second coming from left-back Vokins.

However, they were unable to test Walsall goalkeeper Liam Roberts with either attempt, which allowed the home side time to grow into the game.

This eventually led to Josh Gordon taking aim at Harry Lewis’ goal from a free-kick, only for the ball to drift just wide of the post.

With it looking like it was going to be goalless heading into the break, Scarr made his mark in the group stage match and netted the winner.

The 24-year-old was spotted by Zak Jules and made no mistake in slotting the ball past Lewis.

Walsall boss Darrell Clarke introduced Wes McDonald at half time and it proved to be an inspired substitution.

McDonald caused Saints plenty of problems down the left-wing and came close to doubling the home side’s advantage.

He spotted an opportunity to try and curl the ball into the back of the net, but his effort was matched by the safe hands of Lewis.

Saints found themselves in trouble when Gordon pinched the ball off defender Christoph Klarer and ran through on goal.

Had it not been for Lewis’ legs, the game would have been done and dusted.

With the clock ticking down, Jaidi’s side tried to force an equaliser and had their best chance of the game.

Substitute Christian Norton fired a shot on target, but Roberts was on hand to parry it away from danger.

The home side managed to see the match out, which leaves Saints’ youngsters still looking for their first win in the Leasing.com Trophy.