Luton Town Vs Port Vale Saturday 22nd September 2007

Port Vale's bad run continued as they slumped to defeat at Kenilworth Road on Saturday. The pressure on Foyle now was increased as the teams performance left a lot to be desired by the travelling supporters, who let their frustrations be heard at the end of the game, yet again calling for Foyle's head. As it happens Vale should not of expected a result at Luton, the last time they won there was 1898, so the odds were against them from the start.

Foyle bowed to the crowd and started with Luke Rodgers alongside Callum Willock with McGoldrick playing just behind them in a three pronged attack, leaving Tudor on the bench. But the lack of width played into Luton's hand's, and Vale were run ragged from start to finish. To add to Foyle's despair his best player from recent weeks was sent off, leaving the next few week's looking increasingly difficult to see us picking points up from.

Luton started the better side and almost scored in the third minute after Goodall met Bell's corner, but Anyon saved well from the header. Goodall was a constant thorn in Vales side, and his through ball on 25 minutes had Anyon working again, when a through ball to Spring forced another save from the Vale keeper. Vale's only effort of the first half came when McGoldrick cut in and shot from 25 yards out, but his effort flew wide of the post. Vale fell behind on 29 minutes when veteran Paul Furlong n=met a cross from Bell and he volleyed home from 8 yards out leaving Anyon no chance.

Vale almost fell further behind when a Bell free kick was sent across the Vale goal line before Morgan blasted over the bar. But worse was to come for Vale on 43 minutes. Referee gave Vale a free kick for a foul on Whitaker, but Vale were prevented from taking it quickly. Westwood took it upon himself to dispute the decision by the ref as her gestured to the referee, but the ref was not amused, and sent the player off for foul and abusive language.

Westwood stood his ground to argue the decision, but that only made things worse as tempers both on and off the pitch flared, but this left the Vale with a mighty uphill task. Harsley switched to right back as McGregor went to center half in an attempt to fill the gap, but the second half was going to be a long one as the players trudged off to the away fans chants of 'Foyle Out'!

Half Time Score Luton Town 1 - 0 Port Vale

The second half saw not much change from the first half, with Vale on the back foot from the off. Harsley was replaced by Miller on 53 minutes as Luton began to show their dominance over Vale's 10 men. Furlong and Morgan continued to pressure the Vale back line, and Anyon had to scramble to save a weak header from Furlong. Vale then had a spot of luck when the referee disallowed what would of been Furlong and Luton's second goal for a foul in the area, Furlong disputed and was booked for his comments, funny how Westwood was sent off for his. Vale the brought on Richards for Willock on 61 minutes to try and give McGoldrick and Rodgers some help. Rodgers again had looked the only Vale player likely to score and his 20 yard shot was Vale's first of the half on 68 minutes. But it was again Luton who looked more dangerous, and efforts from Spring and Edwards were both saved well from Anyon. Tudor replaced McGoldrick on 71 minutes, but Vale were still looking more likely to concede than score themselves. The inevitable happened on 85 minutes when a sweeping move met Bell 25 yards out, and his shot fired passed Anyon into the goal off the post. Late on Vale got their first corner of the match on 90 minutes, and Tudors fine ball was met by Rodgers and headed past the keeper from close range for his fourth goal of the season. Vale threw everything forward in injury time but it was too little to late for the Valiant's.

Final Score Luton Town 2 - 1 Port Vale

Port Vale Line Up

1. Joe Anyon
2. George Pilkington
3. Mark McGregor
4. Ashley Westwood Sent Off 43 minutes
5. Paul Edwards
6. Paul Harsley (Justin Miller 53)
7. Craig Rocastle
8. Danny Whitaker
9. Callum Willock (Marc Richards 64 Booked 74)
10. Luke Rodgers
11. David McGoldrick (Shane Tudor 77)

Subs Not Used

• Robin Hulbert
• Jason Talbot

Today's Attendance: 6,084

Man Of The Match: George Pilkington

League One Standings

22. Millwall Pl 7 W 1 D 2 L 4 GF 3 GA 8 Pts 5

23. Port Vale Pl 7 W 1 D 2 L 4 GF 3 GA 8 Pts 5

24. Walsall Pl 7 W 1 D 2 L 4 GA 5 GA 11 Pts 5

After the game came a shock for the Vale fans who had called for Foyles head throughout the game, when keeper Joe Anyon was called over by a group of disgruntled Vale fans. But their comments fell on deaf ears as Anyon, one of Vales best players in recent weeks and a target for several Premiership clubs defended his under fire boss. Anyon said " The fans were shouting Foyle out and this that and the other and I shouldn't of got sucked in to it but I wanted to get mine and the players point across. They should try and do his job and see how hard it is working with what he has got. Its not like we are like the Forest's of this league who can go out and buy players. Forest were below us and underachieving and have players earning £7000 a week. We have players on £700 and £800 so its a totally different ball game. The manager has tried to bring players in, but you can only work with what you have got at a club like Vale "

Under-fire boss Foyle said after the match " We worked really hard in training all week but when we got on the pitch we just froze. We know what we want to do but it's just not happening for us at the moment. One or two didn't do the job's they were told too, but the referee didn't help matters. We have had some terrible ref's this season, but you can't talk to them as it's a waste of time. He sent Ashley off for saying something and if you appeal he may get a five match ban instead of three, so it's not worth it. The game changed after the sending off and we had a mountain to climb. "

This leaves Vale in 23rd spot in the league and deep in relegation trouble. This has been Vale's lowest league place since Foyle and Bratt took over three and a half years ago. Although only seven matches into the season, Vale have not once looked like getting anything out of the games they have lost, so the defeats were from poor performances, not from trying but being unlucky. The manager is quick to blame the players for their lack of 'carrying out his instructions' but if his instruction are bad then they will be playing poorly to his tactics. Anyon was right to defend his boss, all good players will do that. But his comments about the lack of funds being to blame baffle me! Foyle brings in the players with his limited budget, but when done and said all it his him that has signed them, so if they are not good enough then he is to blame. I feel for Foyle as he is loyal to the Vale and was a true hero as a player, but not all players make good managers, and Foyle's tactics are confusing enough for the fans let alone the players. Chairman Bill Bratt has got to take the lead in this matter, as if we slip into League Two then the gate's will drop to less than they are now, with no Forest or Leeds turning up to boost the attendances. This club is better than the position it is in, and the player's are suffering from stage fright it seems. I think if the fans got behind them on Saturday against Southend they would respond, but if not they will falter as they did against Forest. If we lose again, then Bratt should consider showing Foyle the door and maybe bringing in somebody like Mike Newell to try and get us out of the bottom half of the table. A well known manager may attract better players in rather that a fading fans favorite.

Port Vale Vs Notts Forest Saturday 15th September 2007

Poor, boring, incompetent, useless, unattractive, lack of passion, lack of guidance, inept, terrible. All good words that could describe all of Vale's home performances so far this season. One point from a possible nine and exit from the League Cup to a League Two side and all for the tidy sum of £71.00 if you were unfortunate enough to of had to of paid to get in. And are there any bright sparks on the horizon, well not from where I was sitting on Saturday. I cannot think of another club that starts it's top scorer from the bench, while the forward line put on the pitch would have a problem hitting a barn door with a very large target painted on it! And to top it all off we were out sang by a travelling support in the region of 2,500 (Don't believe The Sentinel there were more than 2,000 in Hamil End) which actually looked to have more fan's in than home fans! There is a deep crisis at the club at the moment. The manager looks clueless, but doesn't help himself with ludicrous team selection's. One of our best players has left, leaving a huge gap to be filled. The club is rife with takeover rumours. And the new signings have been on the whole appalling.

Forest were, on the whole, no better than Vale on the day. In the Forest line up was Neil Lennon, who clearly looks overweight and over the hill, and Kris Commons, the ex-Stokie who always plays well against Vale, started from the bench. The big named visitors have had as shaky start to the season as Vale have had, and were still looking for their first win of the campaign. They didn't have to wait long to get on top in this match. An early corner taken by Cohen was flicked on by Holt only to be blasted into his own net by Edwards in an attempt to clear the ball. They were unlucky to not be two ahead on five minutes when Agogo crossed in a ball which was met by Holt, whose fine header was saved by Anyon.
Vale were rocked by the early goal, but got there rhythm back as the half progressed. A chip from Danny Whitaker over the stranded Forest keeper landed on the roof of the net on nineteen minute's. McGoldrick then ran on into the box but his tame effort was knocked away by a Forest defender. Vale started the game with a change of partnership at the back, with Lowe coming in alongside Pilkinton, and Westwood moving to right back after Miller picked up a knock in training. This seemed to unsettle Pilkington, and Forest played on this throughout the half. Cohen easily beat Lowe, leaving Pilkington stranded, but in his eagerness to score, he dwelled on the ball to long and Westwood got back to clear up the danger.
Foyle was forced into a change when Lowe picked up an injury mid way through the half. This meant McGregor coming on as right back and Westwood slotting back in at his preferred center half position (Should of started the game with this back four Mr Foyle!). The change seemed to settle the Vale and they did start to push on towards the end of the half.

Rocastle , who has started to settle into the center midfield role, won the ball in the middle and threaded a ball to Harsley, but his low shot drifted wide of the post. Wilson then clattered into McGoldrick on the edge of the Forest box and from the resulting free kick Vale produced their best effort of the half. The ball was swung in by Harsley, and only a superb reflex save from the Forest keeper Smith denied Westwood equalising for the Vale.

Half Time Score Port Vale 0 - 1 Notts Forest

Vale had ended the first half well, and built on that almost from the start of the second half, when Whitaker missed another golden opportunity to equalise. McGoldrick won the ball and raced goalwards slipping the ball through to Whitaker, whose 20 yard shot was parried away by another great stop from the Forest keeper. As the goal drought looked far from over, Foyle decided to listed to the fan's and bring on Luke Rodgers on 52 minutes. He was involved almost straight away when he latched onto a Rocastle pass and curled his shot just wide. The pair were involved again when a neat one-two left Tudor in space, but his shot went tamely wide.

Forest appeared to be feeling the pressure a bit as Vale pushed on, and Calderwood brought on Kris Commons on 69 minutes to a chorus of boos from the Vale fans. As the half wore on Vale seemed to loose their grip on the game and Foyle decided to bring on Willock to add a bit of height to the forward line. But it was Forest who again went closest on 73 minutes when Holt shot just over the bar. In a final push Vale again threatened when a Tudor corner was met by the impressive Westwood, whose header was claimed by the keeper.

The final few minutes found Forest having the better of the chances. The first came on 85 when Cohen crossed and Holt headed into the path of McGregor, who cleared the ball. But with three minutes left on the clock they got a second goal when Commons crossed in and Chambers was unmarked to give Anyon no chance from eight yards with a fine downward header. Vale had the final chance of the game when McGoldrick chested down Tudors cross but could only find the keepers legs with his tame effort on goal.

Final Score Port Vale 0 - 2 Notts Forest

After the game Foyle blasted the team for their efforts in what should of been one of the biggest home games of the season. He criticised the lack of quality passes to the front pairing of McGoldrick and Richards and inexplicably blamed Edwards for the first goal, even though it was an own goal he was not that bad on the day, and ended up one of the better players on the pitch. Foyle will have to reconsider starting Rodgers from the bench, as he is our only scorer this season, and is the only player who seems to know where the goal is. It will be a tough away trip next week to Luton, and they will start heavy favourites. Foyle needs to pick his strongest eleven every week, and not the players on the biggest wage of transfer fee. Only when Lowe went off did the confidence get better at the back, and he was as much to blame for the first goal as Edwards, as his poor marking allowed the header in the first place. The fans all seem to think Rodgers can score the goals this term to get us up the league, but he is continued to start from the subs bench. He is a much better prospect than Richards, but Foyle persists with his " Main Man " Richards despite him rarely having a shot on goal let alone on target. Big changes are required and fast, or Vale will be in deep relegation trouble, and Foyle could well be on the management scrapheap. As a fan I hate to see one on my heroes struggle as Foyle appears to be doing, but the good of the club is at stake, and we cannot go on playing this way and not getting results. Forest were no better than us, but they created two clear chances and scored them both. Out finishing was woeful in the final third of the pitch, and Foyle tactics and team selection leaves a lot to be desired.

Port Vale Line Up

1. Joe Anyon
2. George Pilkington
3. Ashley Westwood
4. Keith Lowe (Mark McGregor 26)
5. Paul Edwards
6. Paul Harsley
7. Shane Tudor
8. Craig Rocastle
9. Marc Richards (Luke Rodgers 52)
10. David McGoldrick
11. Danny Whitaker (Callum Willock 71)

Subs Not Used

• Robin Hulbert
• Jason Talbot

Today's Attendance: 6,521

Man Of The Match: Ashley Westwood

League One Standings

20. Walsall Pl 6 W 1 D 2 L 3 F 5 A 8 Pts 5

21. Port Vale Pl 6 W 1 D 2 L 3 F 2 A 6 Pts 5

22. Millwall Pl 6 W 1 D 1 L 4 F 3 A 8 Pts 4

Johnsons Paint Trophy Second Round Draw

Port Vale's only realistic chance of a shot at Wembley this year looked like getting a tough start as the draw for the Second Round of the Johnstone's Paint Trophy was made this week. Vale received a bye in the first round, and would of hoped for a home tie in the tough Northern section, where they are in with the big boys such as Leeds United and Huddersfield, but they got a tough away tie at League Two Newcomers Morecambe, manager by former Man Utd favourite Sammy McIlroy. The ties are to be played week commencing October 8th. The full second round draw is as follows.

Northern Section

Wrexham/Macclesfield v Stockport

Carlisle v Chester

Morecambe v Port Vale

Rochdale v Bury

Doncaster v Oldham

Darlington v Leeds

Lincoln City v Hartlepool

Rotherham v Grimsby

Southern Section

Hereford v Yeovil

Bristol Rovers v Bournemouth

Swindon v Cheltenham

Swansea v Wycombe

Milton Keynes Dons v Peterborough

Brighton v Barnet

Leyton Orient v Dagenham & Redbridge

Gillingham v Luton

Walsall Vs Port Vale Saturday 8th September 2007

Port Vale hoped to make it back to back wins in this early afternoon kick off at Walsall today. The home side have had a poor start to the season, as have Vale, and would of also looked to gain all three points against a team who has not won at Walsall for sixty years. The home side included former Vale favourite Danny Sonner and ex loan player Rhys Weston, who both joined Walsall in the summer after their promotion last year.

Vale started unchanged from last weeks win at Bournemouth, with striker Luke Rodgers again starting from the bench. The Pilkington - Westwood partnership was continued, and has started to leave the back line looking very strong. Both side's exchanged half chances throughout the first half, and Joe Anyon again showed why several Premiership clubs have been looking at the young keeper in the last few weeks. Sonner was of course the target of abuse by the Vale traveling support after his departure on not so good terms in the summer, and this seemed to fire him up as he created and had Walsall's best chances in the first half. A Sonner corner on 12 minutes created the first real chance, when Dann volleyed well over from 10 yards out. McGoldrick again looked lively up front for Vale, and his shot was saved by Ince after a good run past two defenders. Vale pressed on again and Paul Edwards again impressed at left back, whipping in a cross which Whitaker met, but sent his 25 yard effort wide. The game almost went Vale's way on 25 minutes when a throw launched into the area by Miller was met by Pilkington, but his effort went just past the post. Sonner then had Walsall's best effort of the half from a free kick, awarded when Harsley handballed just outside the area. Sonner bent the ball over the wall towards the bottom corner but Anyon got down well and tipped the ball around the post.

Neither side really looked like breaking the deadlock, but an effort from Wrackmon 44 minutes nearly put the home side in front at the break. A great ball from Hall put Wrack in and he rounded Anyon but was pushed out to wide, giving Edwards time to get back and block the resulting shot and clearing the danger.

Half Time Score Walsall 0 - 0 Port Vale

Walsall came out of the blocks first at the start of the half. Anyon spilled a cross from Weston and was bundled into by Roper, but his shot went wide and the Vale's call for a free kick fell on deaf ears. McGoldrick then played a neat exchange of passes with Richards at the other end. Richards turned on the edge of the area and shot, but his effort just clipped the crossbar and went over.

Vale continued the pressure and both McGoldrick and Richards went close again. Shane Tudor was again impressive, and his jinking runs had Roper twisting and turning all afternoon. Vale decided to bring on Rodgers on 70 minutes to see if he could snatch a winner as he did last week. This time he attempted to be provider, as he slipped an inch perfect pass to Richards, who shot over from close range. Foyle then brought on Hulbert for Whitaker, and Talbot for the tiring Miller, who was lucky to of played after being ill before the kick off. Neither side really threatened again, and both seemed happy with a point and a clean sheet. The result meant Vale had their second consecutive clean sheet on the road and had gained four points from six in two games they clearly were not favourites in pre kick off, maybe a corner had been turned from Foyle's men.

Final Score Walsall 0 - 0 Port Vale

After the game manager Martin Foyle had this to say " I thought Pilkington, Westwood and Anyon were outstanding today, but one or two players looked a bit jaded. We have been training hard this week and some may be feeling the effects of it today. Our retention of the ball was very poor this afternoon. We knew this would be a difficult place to come and get a result. Our track record here is not that good and we rode our luck at times but we did create some good openings. A draw was probably a fair result but we need to create more chances at the right times "

Port Vale Line Up

1. Joe Anyon
2. George Pilkington
3. Justin Miller (Jason Talbot 79)
4. Ashley Westwood
5. Paul Edwards
6. Paul Harsley
7. Shane Tudor (Luke Rodgers 69)
8. Craig Rocastle
9. Marc Richards
10. David McGoldrick
11. Danny Whitaker (Robin Hulbert 74)

Subs Not Used

• Keith Lowe
• Callum Willock

Today's Attendance: 4,967

Man Of The Match: Joe Anyon

League One Standings

13. Northampton Pl 5 W 1 D 2 L 2 Pts 5

14. Port Vale Pl 5 W 1 D 2 L 2 Pts 5

15. Swansea Pl 4 W 1 D 1 L 2 Pts 4

AFC Bournemouth Vs Port Vale 1st September 2007

With the loss of Akpo Sodje this week Martin Foyle was looking for a big ask from his players to dig deep and grind out a result at Dean Court today, and the team responded with a hard fought, but well deserved first win of the season. Foyle must of been fearing that his job may of been on the line if today's result had gone against him, but the new signings of McGoldrick and Westwood after Sodje's departure filled the gap left by the big man and give Vale's season the kick start it so badly needed. Vale have had good fortune in recent time's here on the south coast, with a 2 - 1 win in 2005 and last seasons 4 - 0 hammering of Bournemouth in a one sided display in December.

The first 45 minute's were dominated by a rampant Vale side, and they could of been four clear by the break. All of the early pressure was in Bournemouths half. Craig Rocastle finally found some form as he raced into the box on 3 minutes only to have his shot saved by a stunning interception from a Bournemouth defender. Vale seemed to have been working on their passing in training this week, as they were more fluid, and the ball seemed to find its target on every occasion. Danny Whitaker seemed to benefit from this the most with several great chances in the first half. His first effort from 20 yards just sailed past the post on 4 minutes, but his next effort almost put the Vale ahead. Paul Edwards started today in the left back position, and played a great cross into the path of Marc Richards. He played the ball across the area, and Whitaker timed his run to perfection, but was denied by a fantastic reflex save from Begovic. Ex-England star Darren Anderton now plies his trade here at Dean Court, and he produced a bit of magic that almost gave the home side a shock lead. His whipped in cross was about to be met by Jo Kuffour, but a smart piece of goalkeeping from Anyon and a great clearance from new boy Westwood kept the scores level.

Vale's other new boy was equally impressive at the other end of the pitch. Whitakers superb through ball on 29 minutes was met by McGoldrick but his shot was bundled away by Begovic. Bournemouth rallied towards the end of the half with a series of corners and free kicks, but Vale stood firm at the back and the scores remained level at half time. All that was missing from Vale's hard work was a goal.

Half Time Bournemouth 0 - 0 Port Vale

Vale started the second half in the same dominant mood as the first, but Bournemouth grew in confidence too as a great diving save from Anyon kept the first effort of the half out. Vale responded again at the other end with McGoldrick going close again from 12 yards out. The home side had a penalty appeal turned down on 54 minutes, when Kuffour was bundled over by Pilkington when trying to reach a cross by Gradel, but the Vale skipper got enough of the ball and ref Andy D'Urso waved play on. Shane Tudor picked up his first card of the season after a 58th minute foul on Cummings. This led to Bournemouth's only spell of sustained pressure on the Vale goal in the match. Bradbury and Kuffour were both denied by brilliant saves from Anyon.

Vale weathered the storm well as the back line stood firm, and this paid off with them regaining the upper hand as the Bournemouth rally died out. Tudors run into the area almost got Vale a penalty when he was felled by Cummings. Whitaker and Rocastle both went close as Vale went in search of a winner. Foyle had a trump card on the bench with Luke Rodgers,who he brought on for Richards on 73 minutes. The little man looked as eager as ever, and Vale started to look more and more dangerous. A great through ball from Whitaker to Rodgers almost had him scoring from his first touch, but his shot just went wide. He made no such mistake with his second effort on 82 minutes. Rodgers jumped on a loose ball on the edge of the area, held off his marker and sent a blistering shot over the head of stranded keeper Begovic. Vale made two changes to eat up the remaining time, bringing on Lowe and Willock as Bournemouth threw everyone up to try and get an equaliser, but the Vale held out the remaining time to get their first win of the season.

Final Score Bournemouth 0 - 1 Port Vale

Martin Foyle was obviously delighted after the match, and had this to say about his super sub Rodgers. " Luke is a bundle of energy. We have changed the side around a lot to try and get the right mix, and Luke has come on with a point to prove and I like that in a player. I have seen too many player's happy to sit it out on the bench but Luke is not like that. Our tempo has been good in training and its been hard to transfer that into matches, but today it all came good. We defended confidently today, and definitely deserved all three point's "

Port Vale Line Up

1. Joe Anyon
2. George Pilkington
3. Justin Miller
4. Ashley Westwood
5. Paul Edwards
6. Paul Harsley
7. Shane Tudor (Keith Lowe 88)
8. Craig Rocastle
9. Marc Richards (Luke Rodgers 73)
10. David McGoldrick (Callum Willock 85)
11. Danny Whitaker

Subs Not Used

• Robin Hulbert
• Jason Talbot

Today's Attendance: 5,444

Man Of The Match: Paul Edwards

Sodje Departs For Pastures New

Port Vale have today reluctantly had to sell star player Akpo Sodje to Championship side Sheffield Wednesday for £250,000 rising to £300,000. The player handed in a transfer request after wanting to play at a higher level, and who can blame him for bettering himself. Sodje did not disgrace himself like a certain Mr Constantine did last season, and had nothing but praise for Vale and manager Martin Foyle for developing him as a player after his move from Darlington last season. Despite his short time at Vale, Sodje's tireless displays established him as a fans' favourite, and he was named player of the year at the end of last season.

Sodje said "I'm very confident the club will get through this spell. Everyone says there's a lot of pressure, but Martin is a very good manager. As a former striker himself, he helped me throughout my time at the club to improve. I really hope the fans can give him a chance this season. He has done a lot for the club and hopefully the fans will be patient. I still think he can get the team into the play-offs. It would have been ideal to play in the Championship with Vale, but I didn't have time to wait when there was an opportunity to join Sheffield Wednesday."

Of Sodje's highlights at Vale, few fans will forget his superb four-goal haul in the 5-1 defeat of Rotherham in March - a feat which equalled a 114-year-old club record. But the imposing front man says he will look back on his whole Vale career with fondness. He said: "I loved every minute of it, from the day I arrived to the day I left. There are so many great memories for me and I can't pick one out. I just want to thank the manager and the chairman for the opportunity they gave me, and also the fans. I'm leaving on good terms and it's sad for me because I had a great time. In the end, I had to follow my dream of playing at a higher level. I'd like to think, though, that the club is getting a good deal for me and that will help them in the future."

I would like to wish Akpo all the best for the future, and I hope he has a great career ahead of him at Sheffield, I'm sure the fan's there will love him as much as we have here at the Vale. He has proved to be as much a gentleman off the pitch as on it, and he will be missed by everyone at the club.

As one door closes another one opens, and with Akpo's departure Foyle dipped into the transfer market to add two new faces to his squad. David McGoldrick has joined on loan from Southampton until Christmas and Ashley Westwood has join on a short term deal after being released from Northampton. Joe Cardle has also gone out an load to Scottish side Clyde to gain some vital first team experience.

Ashley Westwood

David McGoldrick

Port Vale Vs Hartlepool United 25th August 2007

The drawing board put up by Martin Foyle needs a damn good clean today after this drab performance by Vale in their second consecutive defeat of the season. The sunshine that covered Vale Park this afternoon was the only bright spark in today's fixture as Hartlepool took advantage of some poor play by Vale to gain their third win in a row, and give Foyle food for thought after his 'drastic changes need to be made' speech after the Yeovil and Wrexham defeats. It seems the changes may have o be more drastic than he first thought, as this defeat heaped pressure on the manager with sections of the crowd already calling for his resignation after only three games.

Foyle dropped Vales only goalscorer Luke Rodgers?, the best midfielder Danny Whitaker?, and center half Keith Lowe(one out of three isn't bad), and brought in Marc Richards, Paul Harsley and Colin Miles (big improvement then!) to try and get what should of been three points at home, but the changes brought the exact opposite, with Vale being outplayed from the off, and being lucky to keep it at 2 - 0.

It was a perfect start for Hartlepool as they went in front from their first move of the match. Brown ran through Vale's midfield unchallenged and laid the ball into the path of Matt Robson who rolled the ball past the stranded Anyon to make it 1 - 0 after six minutes. After making all the changes to the team Vale looked all at sea for the first goal and it just exploited the embarrassingly poor marking. Vale did create some half chances, with Harlsey going close on 13 minutes and Miles had a good header pushed wide from a good Edwards corner. transfer target Sodje looked jaded, and this may of hampered his shooting boots as his chances looked never likely to trouble the Hartlepool keeper. Vale's inability to score seemed to give Hartlepool the boost they needed, and Humphreys and Robson created chance after chance for Hartlepools front line duo, with only a string of good saves from Anyon keeping the score down to the single goal.

Half Time Port Vale 0 - 1 Hartlepool United

The boo's that Vale walked off too at the end of the half seemed to give them a slight lift, as they came out for the second half with more purpose than in the first. Tudor got past with a blistering run just after the break only to have his cross well cleared by Nelson. Tudor again created a good chance taking on the Hartlepool left back and whipping in a cross, only for the ball to be knocked away from danger by the Hartlepool defense. Just on the hour mark Harsley had Vale's best chance as his low shot went through a crowded box only o hit the post and go wide. Richards reacted well to the loose ball and with the goal beckoning and the keeper stranded, Antwi arrived to knock the shot out for a corner.

As the pressure from Vale started to subside in the heat, Foyle made the double change and brought on Rodgers and Whitaker to try and keep up the challenge to score after 66 minutes. Instead of lifting the team this seemed to dry up Vale's chances, and give Hartlepool the incentive to push on the tired looking Vale team. Both Brown and sub Foley went close for the visitors. Vale did push on to try and equalise, but the poor defensive work let in Hartlepool with three minutes left on the clock to score a second and kill the game off. Brown ran again unchallenged past the Vale midfield and back line to fire past Anyon to make it 2 - 0 and leave Foyle with egg on his face, and Vale with only 1 point so far this season.

Final Score Port Vale 0 - 2 Hartlepool United

This result leaves Vale with no win so far this season, and with three tough games to come, things are unlikely to improve. Transfer targets Anyon and Sodje will be a huge blow if they leave the club, and the play-offs will be about as far away as they could ever be if we lose our best players. Foyle has got to stop messing with line up changes that don't work, and negative tactics at home, to give us any real chance of progression with this squad. Too many of his summer signings are way below the standard of the players we let go, and if this continues then being a nice guy won't cut it with the fans, who pay good money (It costs more for a season ticket to watch the Vale in League One than Derby, Birmingham, Wigan and Sunderland in the Premier League!) to see sub standard performances like this, against teams we should be beating. It is only three games into the season, bit we have missed out on a money making League Cup tie against Aston Villa after the cup exit and we don't look like scoring again this season if the players are going to be as edgy as this for the rest of the year. Half-fit players like Marc Richards should not be being picked above fully fit players like Luke Rodgers, especially when they miss open goals from six yards out! A lot has to improve at this club or the relegation favourite's tag may become a reality.

Port Vale Line Up

1. Joe Anyon
2. George Pilkington
3. Jason Talbot
4. Colin Miles
5. Justin Miller
6. Robin Hulbert
7. Shane Tudor
8. Paul Harsley (Danny Whitaker 66)
9. Marc Richards (Luke Rodgers 66)
10. Akpo Sodje
11. Paul Edwards (Callum Willock 77)

Subs Not Used

• Craig Rocastle
• Keith Lowe

Today's Attendance: 3,978

Man Of The Match: Shane Tudor

Yeovil Town Vs Port Vale 18th August 2007

Martin Foyle promised one thing to be different this season - more passion. So far there has been far to little by the Vale players. Only the first away game of the season, but Vale are still woeful on their travels it seems in this passionless display at Huish Park verses Yeovil. Vale were given a slight boost prior to kick off, with Akpo Sodje being declared fit to retake his place alongside Luke Rodgers, who had shook off an injury scare himself in training.

The conditions for today's game were appalling for a summer fixture, with the rain tipping down for most of the game, and Vales performance didn't give the travelling fans anything to smile about either.

After the extra time earlier in the week against Wrexham, Vale could be forgiven for feeling a bit tired prior to today's game and seemed unable to lift themselves for the match. The first half started with neither side really creating much in the way of chances. The rain seemed to affect both sides, as neither team could string any meaningful moves together. Yeovil put the first real move together. Marcus Stewart, often a thorn in Vale's side in the past, found winger Jones on the right, and his superb cross found ex Crewe player Cochrane, who blasted the ball past Anyon in the Vale goal. The goal seemed to give the home side a boost, with both Owusu and Jones going close to doubling the home sides advantage. As in midweek in the cup, Vale seemed to lack any creative idea's, but against the run of play Yeovil almost handed them a golden opportunity to equalise. Tudor's free kick was knocked into the area by Pilkington, and under pressure from Rodgers, the keeper spilt the ball into the path of Rocastle, but his shot was weak and came to nothing. Sodje had a good effort shortly after but his shot went wide. Vale continued to come under pressure from the home side towards the end of the half, and only good clearances from Lowe prevented Yeovil from going further ahead.

Half Time Yeovil Town 1 - 0 Port Vale

Vale had to try and keep hold of the ball in the second period if they were to get anything out of the game, but it was Yeovil who again seemed the more likely to score, with a Williams effort just clearing the bar. Tudor, who had impressed in his first two games for Vale, seemed to be having no impact on today's game, and Foyle tried to shake things up on 56 minutes replacing Tudor and Rocastle with Marc Richards and Paul Harsley. This seemed to give Vale a bit of a lift, and they created chances from a string of free kicks, but it came to nothing.

Yeovil seemed to be happy they had done enough to quell the visitors response to the fresh legs and created little in the way of any clear cut chances. Foyle then had his final substitution to try and get a goal, and it created Vales best chance of the game. Paul Edwards came on for Jason Talbot with 15 minutes left on the clock and almost got Vale back into the game. He swung a pinpoint cross into the area but Lowe had his header tipped away by the Yeovil keeper. Richards almost went close after a good ball in from Whitaker, but his effort went just wide. Right on time Anyon pulled off a great save to prevent Yeovil from adding to the scoreline, but in the end this passionless performance was not enough from Vale and Yeovil ran out easy winners.

Final Score Yeovil 1 - 0 Port Vale

After the game Foyle was rightly furious at his teams lack of bite in the game, and has said he will make wholesale changes before the visit of Hartlepool next week. This has been a bad week for Vale, and despite not appearing to bothered at the League Cup exit, surely Bill Bratt and Martin Foyle must be a little disappointed at the fact we would of drawn Aston Villa at home in the next round. After the game Foyle said " There seemed to be quite a few things wrong today. i was bitterly disappointed with the first half display, and we were much better after the substitutions in the second half. So it looks like that is what is needed before next week - changes. No-one can argue about the result after the first half. It was poor and passionless, we couldn't hold the ball up or even pass from A to B, something we will have to get right in training. "

Port Vale Line Up

1. Joe Anyon
2. Mark McGregor
3. Jason Talbot (Paul Edwards 71)
4. Robin Hulbert
5. George Pilkington
6. Keith Lowe
7. Shane Tudor (Marc Richards 56)
8. Craig Rocastle (Paul Harsley 56)
9. Akpo Sodje
10. Luke Rodgers
11. Danny Whitaker

Subs Not Used

• Callum Willock
• Colin Miles

Today's Attendance: 5,071

Man Of The Match: Joe Anyon

Port Vale Vs Wrexham Carling Cup 1st Round 14th August 2007

Well there is one thing you can rely Vale to do during a League Cup campaign and that's blow it. After last seasons heroics against Championship outfits Preston, Norwich and Q.P.R. and the valiant efforts put up in taking Tottenham to extra time, this seasons cup run came down to earth with a very big bang as Vale dumped out of the competition on penalties to League Two outfit Wrexham after a drab night at Vale Park.

Vale were forced to change the line up from Saturday as Akpo Sodje had not recovered from his injury, so into the fray stepped up Callum Willock to start for the first time this season. Vale started the game as sharply as they have done every game in the last few weeks, and almost took the lead from the off, as Luke Rodgers skipped past two defenders and sent in a low cross. Danny Whitaker picked up the ball and played a one-two with Rodgers, whose shot hit the crossbar.

Despite the good start it was Wrexham who took the lead after 11 minutes. Danny Williams knocked a through ball to Micheal Proctor, and he duly took the ball past the helpless Keith Lowe and shot past Anyon into the top corner. Lowe and Anyon then played the blame game with each other, but Lowe was clearly at fault, as the through ball had left him completely out of position leaving Anyon stranded.

Luke Rodgers is still the brightest spark in the Vale line up this season and tonight was no exception. He was a constant thorn in the Wrexham defence and it was almost certain Vale would get a goal back as they began to dominate the game. Shane Tudor impressed again and his ability to take on players could prove an asset to Vale this term. He had a great chance to level when Willock played him through, but instead of hitting the ball first time h steadied himself and put the ball just over.

Chance after chance came and it was beginning ti frustrate both the players and the fans at Vales inability to put away one of the efforts. They were finally rewarded when a penalty was awarded on 34 minutes. Tudor's ball over to Willock left him clear in the area. He turned to take a shot, but was needlessly pulled down by a Wrexham defender. After his perfect spot kick on Saturday, Luke Rodgers stepped up again to blast the ball past the keeper and to score his second goal in as many games.

Half Time Score Port Vale 1 - 1 Wrexham

Vale started the second half in a dominant mood again, and Wrexham seemed to be holding on for what appeared to be only a matter of time before they went behind. Vale continued to create chance's, with Rodgers and Willock linking up well. The lack of a breakthrough appeared to dwell on the minds of Vale's players, and gave Wrexham a lift. Tudor drifted out of the game, and his problems with his shin guards seemed to leave him unwilling to put in any meaningful effort. As Vale's chances dried up Wrexham started to dominate, and the introduction of Johnson put Vale on the back foot. As time ticked on Vale started to try efforts from way outside the box, and these were summed up by a woeful effort from Rocastle that flew over the bar. Foyle tried in vain to rally the troops from the edge of the pitch but it seemed the message was not getting through. In an attempt to break the deadlock, Willock was replaced by Marc Richards on 76 minutes, but his lack of fitness showed through and he looked out of sorts on the ball, often giving the ball away needlessly.

Full Time Score Port Vale 1 - 1 Wrexham

After being level on 90 minutes extra time was needed to try and break the deadlock. They need not of bothered! Both half's of extra time were very drab affairs. Neither side looked willing to throw players forward, although Wrexham did look more likely to score. The first period seemed to drag on for an age, with both sides only gaining corners but doing nothing with them. The second period was slightly better, with Wrexham at least trying to score with efforts from Llewellyn and Johnson going close. Foyle brought on Miles after Talbot could not get rid of a leg cramp, and this seemed the point where Vale's effort to push forward stopped.

Score after Extra Time Port Vale 1 - 1 Wrexham

Penalties

• Wrexham 1-0 Valentine - Gave Anyon no chance with well struck penalty
• Vale 1-1 Rodgers - Vale's best spot kick taker puts it away with ease
• Wrexham 2-1 Spender - Hit Hard but to high for Anyon to reach
• Vale 2-2 Richards - Well hit penalty put away nicely
• Wrexham 3-2 Murtagh - Hit at good height for keeper to reach but too hard to stop it
• Vale 3-3 Tudor - Free kick specialist put it away well
• Wrexham 4-3 Done - Almost stopped by Anyon but hit to well again
• Vale 3-4 Whitaker - Tried to place it but hit the post
• Wrexham 5-3 Llewellyn - Perfectly placed past Anyon to win game.

So Vale bow out on penalties, and yet again our League Cup campaign ends as soon as it began. At £14 you can at least say you had your money's, worth but an hour and a half of watching paint dry would of been more fun! Vale seemed to lack any clue how to finish a team off again, and if this is against a League Two side, who only stayed in League Two on the last day of the season, then we are a long way off challenging for the play offs. Foyle has said he wants more passion from the players, well apart from Rodgers there was a distinct lack of passion tonight. The die hard 2,916 who turned up tonight would not of been impressed with Foyle's summer signings. Rocastle is clumsy and slow, Edwards is not real threat, Keith Lowe is a very average center half who hoof's first and passes after. Richards has no real quality, Willock is at best a good sub, but no replacement for Sodje. The only bright spark is Tudor and Rodgers. Tudor takes on players well, but did seem to disappear as the game went on. Rodgers looks quality, and does not stop running and getting at the opposition, but the quality of ball to him has to improve. Things must get better or this will have to be Foyle's last season in charge. To early to right there chances off yet, but if this is an indication of things to come, then I would get your C.V. ready now Martin, you may need it sooner rather than later....

Port Vale Line Up

1. Joe Anyon
2. George Pilkington
3. Jason Talbot (Colin Miles 105)
4. Robin Hulbert (Paul Edwards 85)
5. Keith Lowe
6. Mark McGregor
7. Shane Tudor
8. Craig Rocastle
9. Callum Willock (Marc Richards 76)
10. Luke Rodgers
11. Danny Whitaker

Subs not used

• Mark Goodlad
• Paul Harsley

Tonight's Attendance: 2,916

Man Of The Match: George Pilkington

Port Vale Vs Bristol Rovers 11th August

The sun shone down on Vale Park on the opening day of the 2007/08 season but clouds of doubt hung over us again as Vale again showed their defensive frailties and inability to finish teams off. Many of the large home crowd would not of been tempted into coming back on Tuesday for the Carling Cup match with a very subdued Vale performance. But not to be too despondent, this of course was the first game of the season, and there were a few bright sparks to give us some hope for the rest of the season.

Vale started brightly, and new signing Shane Tudor showed why he will surely become a fans favourite with some brilliant runs in and around the box to thread the ball into Rodgers and Sodje. Rovers then showed why they came up from the league below with a great effort from Lambert which was saved by Anyon in the Vale goal. Vale then got a free kick when a Rovers player was adjudged to of raised a boot at Robin Hulbert. The resulting Tudor free kick was laid off to the lively Rodgers, whose shot was blocked by the Rovers defense.

Both sides were finding the sweltering conditions tough, but it was Vale that were the more attacking in the first half. Sodje and Rodgers both had good chances to break through a very resolute Rovers defence. But towards the end of the half Rovers produced a ten minute spell of dominance that had Vale on the back foot. Rovers created chances both down the left and right flanks, and Jason Talbot was looking out of his depth as he was constantly left out of position and seemingly marking fresh air. This led to Lescott creating good chances for Rovers as he had more and more joy down the right, and bot Campbell and Pipe went close for the visitors.

Luckily for Vale Bristol appeared to have left their shooting boots at home, and the chances they created either were blasted high and wide, or were easily saved by Anyon. Towards the end of the half tempers flared up when Walker appeared to tread on Jason Talbot. Talbot went to ground clutching his chest, and the Vale fans around the area were screaming for the ref to brandish a red card, but Walker didn't even get spoken to by referee Jon Moss. With half time approaching Rocastle impressed with a great ball through to Luke Rodgers, whose effort hit the side netting.

Half Time Score Port Vale 0 - 0 Bristol Rovers

The second half started as the first had ended, with both sides looking good going forward but failing to convert it into any chances on goal. Rovers were first to catch Vale off guard, as Lambert had an effort go just wide. As the sides had switched ends, Bristol seemed buoyed by the huge away following, and produced a great effort when the lively Campbell layed the ball off to Walker, whose effort hit the side netting. Vale then had a blow when Sodje limped off after taking a bad knock on the ankle. Newly signed Callum Willock came on for his debut, and his appearance appeared to lift Vale. Shane Tudor continued to impress giving Jacobson a torrid time down the right with his speed and nifty footwork.

With Vale well on top in the match Willock was bundled over in the box after a dominant run by Rovers keeper Phillips, and referee Moss immediately pointed to the spot. Rodgers stepped up to blast the penalty home, and his goal celebration showed why he will be a firm favourite at Vale Park, with him running over to the Lorne Street fans to celebrate his first of the season after his seven goals in an impressive pre-season.

Vale fans must of been feeling relieved as the team had worked hard to gain the lead against an impressive Bristol defense, but with the introduction of Andy Williams, the visitors seemed to step it up a gear, and leave Vale ruing missed opportunities. Again as time crept into the final fifteen minutes, Vale did what the had done so many times last season and conceded in a game they were dominating. Williams picked the ball up in the area, and the indecisive Vale back line allowed his shot which went in past the helpless Anyon on 77 minutes. Rovers then appeared to have the upper hand and they again went close with an effort from Walker. Vale rallied late on and both Rocastle and Tudor went close in the last few minutes. In the end neither side could break the other down and the points were shared. Foyle said after the match " It was a fair result and I predicted a draw before the game. They are a strong side and will surprise a few teams this season. They made it very hard for us on the day and neither side could argue with getting a point from the match. Shane Tudor created a lot from the wing but he was at home today, and we will have to get the ball to him more so he can create as much on our travels as well. "

Final Score Port Vale 1 - 1 Bristol Rovers

Port Vale Line Up

1. Joe Anyon
2. Mark McGregor
3. George Pilkington
4. Robin Hulbert
5. Keith Lowe
6. Jason Talbot
7. Shane Tudor
8. Danny Whitaker
9. Akpo Sodje (Callum Willock 62)
10. Luke Rodgers
11. Craig Rocastle

Subs Not Used

• Mark Goodlad
• Paul Harsley
• Colin Miles
• Justin Miller

Today's Attendance: 6,808

Man Of The Match: Robin Hulbert

Nantwich Town Vs Port Vale 7th August

It was never going to be the first team that played tonight, and judging by the first half line up on Saturday against Shrewsbury, Martin Foyle pretty much has his starting eleven for the visit of Bristol Rovers in mind for this weekend's season opener. So a trip in the sunshine to Cheshire and Nantwich Town tonight was about what? Well if nothing else it was for players to pick up some fitness, maybe put themselves in the frame for a place on the bench and to put some money into the coffers of a club embarking on a new era at a new ground.

The Weaver stadium may not be huge, but for a non league ground it say's a lot for this level of footballs ambition to do better. It is one of the nicest little stadiums I have seen, with a great little main stand, a tidy covered supporters stand, a smart club shop and a great function room.

Welcome Back Mark Goodlad

Tonights game also saw the long awaited comeback of Mark Goodlad, out since December with a ruptured Achilles tendon, and also Vale fans first proper look at new boy Marc Richards, who has missed some of pre season with a troublesome groin strain. Also on show was the youthful Andy Porter, who still looks as fit as ever and would probably still make the grade in the league today!

Marc Richards settles into the game

A mainly young Vale side saw themselves run out easy winners of the fixture, although Nantwich did pull level just after the break. One worry was a rather nasty challenge on Joe Cardle, who limped off on 89 minutes to a worried looking Foyle. Apart from the idiots behind the goal shouting 'get up you pansy' and 'I hope you break your neck' to Cardle, most felt he had done enough to put himself on the bench for Saturday.

Vale opened the scoring almost straight from the kick off when Richards opened the scoring after being set up by Calum Willock, who should sign for the Vale today. Nantwich played on the fact Goodlad had been absent for a while by pressing the Vale goal, but he bravely saved from Town's Parkinson. Town almost scored from the resulting corner, but Glover's effort just went over the bar. The Nantwich fans didn't have to wait long for their team to score though, when Blackhurst tapped home on 15 minutes. Vale's young and inexperienced defence sonn cracked again under Town's pressure when Andy Bott made it 2-1 with a shot following a corner on 18 minutes. Danny Glover, son of assistant manager Dean Glover, impressed on the night with a series of jinking runs, and almost levelled for Vale on 20 minutes with a shot that sailed over the bar.

Andy Porter shows he still has it

Vale continued to push forward in search of an equaliser, with Willock and Cardle creating some glorioius chances in the evening sunshine. Carldle the earned a penalty after being tripped in the box by Town's Ryan Dicker. Marc Richard's calmly took the penalty with a cooly taken effort slotted past the keeper on 32 minutes. Vale then pushed on towards the end of the half and were rewarded with a goal from a well worked free kick. Cardle put the ball into the danger area, and Charlie O'Laughlin knocked the ball home to give Vale the lead at the break.

O'Laughlin celebrates his goal in style

Second half started with a change in goal for Vale, as Goodlad was replaced by youngster Lloyd Ransome, who will probably be on the bench Saturday with Goodlad still not fit. No sooner was he on the pitch he was picking the ball out of the net when former Crewe striker Pavel Suhaj headed home on 46 minutes. The game then seemed to peter out and Vale dominated the rest of procedings. Cardle was a constant threat down the left, and gave defender Donneley a torrid time, whipping in cross after cross. Just before the hour mark Richards almost got his hat trick when he met on of Cardles crosses. Cardle was rewarded for a good nights work when he strocked home Danny Glovers cross on 66 minutes, and seven minutes later,Willock was on target to make it five for Vale. After a few subs from both side's Nantwich appeared to tire after their earlier efforts and Vale sub Simon Richman slotted home the sixth on 80 minutes after more good work from Cardle. Then of corse came the challenge on Cardle which led to the player being carried from the pitch, and leaving most fans hoping he will make a speedy recovery.

Cardle rounds off night with a goal

All in all it was a good run out for Vales youngster's and apart from the injury to Cardle, it was well worth the trip. Final score Nantwich Town 3 Port Vale 6.

Port Vale Line Up

1. Mark Goodlad (Lloyd Ransome 45)
2. Shaun Wilson
3. Adam Copeland
4. Andy Porter (James Lawrie 65)
5. Luke Prosser
6. Charlie O'Laughlin
7. Joe Cardle (Luke Chapman 89)
8. Ross Davidson
9. Marc Richards (Simon Richman 75)
10. Callum Willock
11. Danny Glover

Port Vale Vs Shrewsbury Town 4th August

Well it had to happen some time, and better for it to happen today than when the season starts. After an unbeaten pre-season so far, the Shrews provided a much needed sterner test for Martin Foyles men today, and Vale's proverbial 'thorn in their side' ex player Dave Hibbert was again to score against them right at the death to give Shrewsbury the win 1-0 on the day. This was probably the kick up the backside Vale needed a week before the season starts against Bristol Rovers, a team promoted above Shrewsbury last term from League Two via the Play-Offs.
Vale started the game somewhat slowly after the last few games where they began by scoring so early. Shrewsbury looked a strong outfit from the start, and it was soon clear that they would be no pushovers. Luke Rodgers and Akpo Sodje again looked to be forming a great partnership up front. But for a string of outstanding saves from Shrew's keeper Glynn Garner, Vale would of ran out comfortable winners of this game. He made a series of magnificent stops to deny Rodgers, Sodje, Talbot and Whitaker to prevent Vale from scoring for the first time this pre-season. Foyle looked on bemused as his team looked well below par, and were at times second fiddle to the League Two outfit. Vale created most of their best work in the first half, with several efforts almost putting them in front. Luke Rodgers went close after 10 minutes. Sodje met a cross into the area from Mark McGregor. The header mis-directed into the path of Rodgers, whose shot was saved by Garner. Sodje then had two brilliant efforts saved by Garner. The first was a one handed shot, tipped around the post from a Sodje bullet, and the second from a close range header, once again tipped over the crossbar. As the half began to draw to a close Vale grew in confidence and began to show more of their pre- season form, with Tudor and Rocastle both creating chances. Right on half time Vale should of taken the lead but were yet again stopped by another fine save. Paul Edwards played in Jason Talbot but his shot was parried away by Garner into the path of Rodgers, but his effort was again beaten away by the keeper. As is the custom in these games Foyle started to make changes to the team at half time, taking off Edwards and bringing on Robin Hulbert. This changed the formation around to 4-4-2, with Hulbert in the center alongside Rocastle, Whitaker and Tudor on the flanks. Shrewsbury also rang the changes, bringing on four players, including Dave Hibbert, who was give the bird by the Vale supporters. Shrewsbury gained in confidence after the break, mainly due to Hibbert, and he almost created the first goal after only being on the pitch a few minutes. He swung a right wing cross over the Vale back line to Michael Symes, whose effort was tipped away by Anyon.
Vale continued as they had in the first half and should of gone ahead on 51 minutes. A corner from Tudor was powerfully headed down from Keith Lowe and found unmarked Luke Rodgers, but he flicked his header wide from 5 yards out. Foyle changes both his full backs on 61 minutes, bring on Miller and Miles for McGregor and Talbot. Efforts from Whitaker and a couple of goalmouth scrambles followed as Vale started to throw everything at the Shrewsbury goal. Best of the efforts came when Garner again saved a Sodje effort. Hulbert threaded a pass though to Sodje. His effort from 16 yards out was almost perfect, but Garner flung himself to his left and pushed the ball wide.

Vale made a few late substitutions, with Rodgers being replaced by trialist Callum Willock, who looks like being signed this week, and Tudor being replaced by Cardle. Shrewsbury looked to a late rally on the Vale goal and the last ten minutes showed that Vale still have the ability to lose concentration at the end of matches, something which Foyle will want to prevent when the season starts. Miles was booked for a challenge on Darren Moss, and Shrewsbury almost scored from the resulting free kick. Marc Pugh's free kick was met by a Stewart Drummond header and Anyon pulled off a fine save. He was again called into action on 88 minutes, pushing away a good effort from a Jimmy Ryan free kick. The visitors were rewarded for their late rally right on time when Dave Hibbert drifted unmarked into the area to produce a sneaky little goal and give the Shrews an undeserved win.
After the game manager Foyle said " From my point of view this is a great wake-up call. We had some great chances and their keeper was outstanding with six magnificent saves. But I also want clean sheets. I put our taller players on towards the end to give them a run out, but we have to learn to defend better from free kick and corners. We must stop giving away silly free kicks and putting pressure on ourselves. It was a mistake we made last season in that we lost a game we should of drawn. "
Although Vale lost the game, this pre-season has gone almost perfectly. Up front Vale look to of got a great partnership forming in Rodgers and Sodje. At the back Lowe and Pilkington look solid, with McGregor and Talbot looking good for the full back spots, and Miller and Miles able to replace anyone along the back line. Midfield looks the only area likely to give Foyle headaches. Rocastle, Whitaker, Hulbert, Edwards, Harsley, Cardle and Tudor all look to be fighting for spots on the first team, with only Shane Tudor looking definite so far, with another fine display today to add to his great pre-season. Whitaker and Rocastle seem to have done enough in the middle of the park, with Edwards on the other flank. I'm sure that on Tuesday at Nantwich Foyle will answer his final thought to the big kick off on Saturday against Bristol Rovers who will be buoyant after promotion last year, and will be after a good start to their season. Vale yet again start with a game against a promoted side for the third year in a row, and after winning the last two opening days of the season, will want to do the same again this term. We look to have a good squad this season, with places being challenged for from off the bench, and if we can keep injury free who knows what we can achieve.

Port Vale Line Up

1. Joe Anyon
2. Mark McGreagor (Justin Miller 61)
3. George Pilkington
4. Keith Lowe
5. Jason Talbot (Colin Miles 61)
6. Shane Tudor (Joe Cardle 82)
7. Craig Rocastle (Paul Harsley 72)
8. Danny Whitaker
9. Paul Edwards (Robin Hulbert 45)
10. Luke Rodgers (Callum Willock 74)
11. Akpo Sodje