Five thoughts following Port Vale’s home win over Crawley

Following Port Vale’s League Two win over Crawley Town, Rob Fielding brings up five points which arose after the final whistle.

This is not a comprehensive list and you may not agree with our choices. If you don’t scroll to the bottom of this feature and click on the button to have your say (or add questions of your own) on the dedicated forum thread.

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Defensive duo continue to impress

While striker Mark Cullen may deservedly grab the headlines for his two goals, it’s worth noting that central defenders Leon Legge and Nathan Smith once again had impressive games in helping to keep a clean sheet. Smith’s decision to commit his future to Vale in the summer continues to pay dividends as the pair complement each other so well. Smith and Legge were able to mix it up physically, prove a problem in the opposing box (with Smith unlucky not to draw a penalty) and their consistency is admirable. It’s hard luck on Shaun Brisley and Adam Crookes (who kept a clean sheet in midweek it should be said) but Smith and Legge are deservedly Port Vale’s first choice pairing.

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Bench shows Vale’s strength in depth

The Valiants were missing the suspended Tom Pope, injured duo David Amoo and James Gibbons plus the unfit Harry McKirdy. Yet, beyond the strong starting eleven, the club was still able to field an impressively strong bench. On another day any one of subs Manny Oyeleke, Danny Whitehead, Theo Robinson, Shaun Brisley, Dino Visser, Adam Crookes and Cristian Montano could have started.

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Rodney looks a real prospect

His skill may come in flashes at the moment and his energy may wane after 75 minutes but Devante Rodney has real promise. With more games and experience both the issues mentioned could be solved as he gains more consistency and match fitness. However, even at this early stage of his Valiants career, he showed exactly why Vale gave him a three year deal. His turn, run and cross for Mark Cullen’s opener was high class. We suspect there’s a future crowd favourite and a potential moneyspinner for the Valiants on the left wing.

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Brown proves a point

It may have been unthinkable for a couple of seasons but this campaign, Scott Brown has been under pressure for his place. His previously fine form was a tad off towards the end of last season and deputy Dino Visser dazzled in the midweek FLT tie. However, Brown fans can rest easy. Normal service resumed on Saturday as the veteran casually pulled out a handful of stunning saves to ensure Vale kept a clean sheet. In this form, it will take something special to dislodge him.

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How many could Cullen net if he stays fit?

Mark Cullen’s stats for Vale are hugely impressive. In thirteen starts he’s scored eight times. However, those stats also tell another story – that of a player whose appearances last season were restricted by injury. He’s such a talented forward that every Vale fan will be keeping their fingers crossed that he can stay fit this campaign. If he does – how many can he net?

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