Match report: Port Vale 4-2 Crewe
Port Vale’s fine cup form under Neil Aspin continued as Chris Regis enjoyed a dream debut, Anton Forrester got a goal on his return from injury and Billy Reeves got his first in a Vale shirt.
Vale made seven changes including a debut for new signing Regis, another debut for youth teamer Mike Calveley and the return of Anton Forrester upfront.
Newboy Regis enjoyed a dream debut as good work from James Gibbons allowed him to open the scoring just three minutes into the match. Vale’s fine start continued as Forrester scored a brilliant second goal on eight minutes as Vale completely dominated the visitors.
Montano had another chance while Chris Porter had an opportunity for Crewe. However, the visitors did score on the half-hour mark when Riley netted.
Vale took their lead into the interval and the second period started more quietly until Billy Reeves, a half-time substitution put Vale further ahead with his first senior goal. It came from Adam Yates’ fine cross.
Crewe were still in the game with 25 minutes left as Riley scored his second of the game. The visitors pushed for an equaliser but the Vale defence held firm and Cristian Montano broke clear to score his second goal of his Vale career and wrap the game up.
The result means Vale finish on top of their group and are now guaranteed a home draw in the last 32.
Vale: Boot, Gibbons, Smith, Gunning, Yates, Stobbs, Calveley (Reeves), Tonge, Montano, Regis (Turner), Forrester (De Freitas)
Subs: Hornby, Walford
Attendance: 1,322 (75 away)