The Wonder Of P.V.F.C.: Port Vale Vs Exeter City 20th July 2007

Luke Rodgers yet again proved to be Vale's lucky charm on this mini tour in a 1-1 draw at Exeter. The game was Vale's toughest of the pre-season so far, after back to back victories against Newcastle Town and Tiverton. Exeter beat Norwich last weekend and could of claimed a second league scalp, but Rodgers fourth goal in three games save Vale's blushes.

The few travelling Vale fan's had little to cheer in the first half and Exeter came close to breaking the deadlock when Jamie Mackie hit the woodwork after 11 minutes. Exeter should of punished Vale again on 40 minutes after Anyon was caught out of position. Shane Tully was first to a badly cleared ball, but he shot the ball straight at Jason Talbot.

Vale started the second half with a lot more purpose than in the first, and a minute into the half Sodje fired wide from 25 yards out. Vale were almost caught out again when Dean Moxey fired wide for the home side on 56 minutes. Justin Miller went close for Vale on 63 minutes as he ran past two players and shot from the edge of the area. The shot was blocked and Robin Hulbert collected from the rebound, but his shot was well saved from the Exeter keeper.

Vale then made three changes. The substitutes were only on the pitch three minutes when Rodgers won a penalty, after being brought down by Matt Taylor. Rodgers picked himself up and took the penalty, belting the spot kick straight down the middle. Exeter levelled on 83 minutes when a rare lapse in concentration by George Pilkington led to the equaliser. Pilkington's miscued clearance fell to Richard Logan who volleyed home from 2 yards. The home side could of got a late winner on 90 minutes, but Jason Talbot's crucial goal line challenge denied Rui Braguinha.

Port Vale Team