Analysis: Yates the star against Spireites
Pete Tindall was at the Chesterfield game and he has reflected on the 2-2 draw at the B2net stadium for OVF.
The talking points:
Before the match, much of the conversation centred around whether Ryan Burge will even stay at the club. Many speculated (correctly) that Marc Richards was bound to score against the Vale.
Post-match, the conversation centred around CEO Norman Smurthwaite’s extraordinary celebrations with the away following – “Smurf is the word” – and how much the away draw felt like a win.
Men of the match:
Adams Yates and Lord Smurthwaite of Burslem.
The away support:
2,040 were there. We were only quiet for a little bit after their second goal.
Player ratings:
CHRIS NEAL
Good distribution and some good saves. There was not much he could do about either of Richards’ goals
ADAM YATES
Mega work rate and saved one off the line. He totally wanted this game. MOTM despite a duff pass or two.
DARREN PURSE
Took his goal well but then could have shepherded Richards better. Had an improved second-half.
LIAM CHILVERS
A steady performance and was better in the second-half. I didn’t see the reason for the yellow.
DAN JONES
Not quite as amazing as he has been recently, but then he has high standards to maintain.
ROB TAYLOR
Not sure why he started? OK on the ball but only offered sideways or back passes. No ‘signature’ harem scarem runs forward.
ANTHONY GRIFFITH
Back to his best. If you were to play against Vale you would dread this man. Never a booking for me.
DOUG LOFT
Full of running. He linked up the play between the midfield and forwards beautifully, especially in the second-half.
JENNISON MYRIE-WILLIAMS
Did what we love him to do: running at them and taking three players out of the match.
TOM POPE
This man is a hero. He would go through a brick wall for the Vale. His goal will live long in the memories of all there.
CALVIN ANDREW
Won a few headers, otherwise looked ponderous and lost. Micky Adams must have a good reason to have started with him.
CHRIS BIRCHALL (sub, on 37 mins)
A great player almost back to full fitness. Should have started?
BEN WILLIAMSON (sub, on 64 mins)
Loads of energy around midfield and upfront with Pope. Gave Micky Adams plenty to think about for Friday.
CHRIS SHUKER (sub, on 64 mins)
Great link-up with the defence and midfield. Put the ball through for our second goal.