Following a fairly even first half, Chelsea found themselves behind just eight minutes after the game got back underway. It took Dynel Simeu’s poke from close range to send the tie to penalty kicks, where a strong left hand from Lucas Bergstrom and deciding Ian Maatsen kick handed us an extra point.

Head coach Myers was left happy with the overall performance of his team, who showed quality and character to leave the West Midlands with a positive result.

‘It was a very good game and both teams were very competitive,' the development squad head coach told the official Chelsea website afterwards.

'For such a young side, we stuck to the game plan and stood up to the physical presence of Walsall but also played some really good football at times.

‘I was really pleased with the outcome even though it was after penalties but to come back into the game after going one down, I thought the boys showed great character and also showed what they were about on the ball at times.'

There were 16 minutes between Wes McDonald's opener and Simeu’s equaliser, a goal the boss was particularly happy with, as well as the five penalties his side dispatched. Myers also recognised the extra point as an important one ahead of the final group stage fixture.

‘The goal was pleasing - it was from a set-piece, we were battling away in the area and it’s nice to see that side of the team,' he continued. 'I have to say the penalties were top-class and Lucas Bergstrom made a great save early on which played a big part. It’s no more than we deserved.

‘It’s great to have the extra point. We needed to win this game to give us a chance of qualifying from the group in our final game at Bristol Rovers in November.’

The development squad are next in action on Sunday when Arsenal visit Kingsmeadow. Kick-off in the London derby is 12 noon and you can watch the action live on the 5th Stand app or right here.

-In other Academy news, Under-18s defender Bashir Humphreys has signed his first professional contract with Chelsea. The 17-year-old has captained Ed Brand's side on numerous occasions this term and has been a mainstay at the heart of the defence. The youngster will remain a Blue until at least 2023. Well deserved, Bashir!