A second-half headed goal by veteran Antony Kay helped Port Vale to safety in League Two for this season.

Manager Neil Aspin made three changes bringing in Kyle Howkins, Joe Davis and Anton Forrester into his starting line-up.

Vale had the better chances in the early stages with chances for Pope and Hannant.

Lincoln went close on the half-hour mark but it was a mostly even first-half of the game although Vale were forced into an early change with Charlie Raglan replacing Davis.

In the second period it was the home side who took the lead when Kay headed home on the hour mark from Worrall’s cross.

Vale were grateful for goalkeeper Sam Hornby’s fine save with ten minutes remaining which prevented Matt Green and the Valiants kept a clean sheet to significantly ease any fears of relegation.