Swindon defeat blows any chance of the play-offs (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Swindon defeat blows any chance of the play-offs

A DISAPPOINTING and frankly lifeless display was all that Swindon could offer against Walsall on Saturday as they went down by two goals to one at the County Ground, writes Ben Maggs.

At the end of a poor first half, that had seen Swindon create the better of the chances, Julian Joachim fired in a cracking shot from a narrow angle that gave Walsall an undeserved half-time lead.

The second half saw a fairly drab affair, but things looked to be improving for Town when Sam Parkin equalised from the spot in the 84th minute.

But the Robins' joy was short-lived as Mark Wright side-footed in an injury-time winner for the Saddlers that finally killed off Swindon hopes of making the play-offs.

'Deadwood' was the expression chosen by King to analyse Saturday's display and the individual contributions within it.

Of his players awaiting to discover if their contracts will be renewed, King said: "We looked like people waiting to find out, hoping and looking over their shoulders.

"The only way to eliminate that is to begin the unfortunate and difficult part of addressing the situation and starting again.

"I have to speak to the board of directors. It depends on what I've got available to rebuild. There are players in contract that I might let go."

As the curtain comes down on what has been a forgettable season, Robins are set to travel to high-flying Hull this weekend.

With a few games left until the summer break, the Town faithful will be longing for the end of a disappointing campaign.

With Hull in second place on 85 points, it seems unlikely that Swindon will come away with anything from the KC stadium.

King has no injury worries, but there is a feeling of lifelessness about the club, and mustering anything from Saturday's trip is going to be a big ask.