Match Report: Scunthorpe Utd 1-2 Port Vale (Carabao Cup)
Debut goals by Zak Mills and Theo Robinson in the closing stages of both halves were enough to earn Port Vale a place in the second round of the Carabao Cup.
The Valiants handed debuts to Mills, David Fitzpatrick and Devante Rodney for their first competitive match of the 2020-21 season.
John Askey’s side started confidently with Tom Conlon and David Worrall both looking bright in the opening stages. Rodney and central striker Cullen both missed chances while the home side’s Eisa forced Scott Brown into a fine save.
The Vale took the lead on 45 minutes through the unlikely figure of Mills. The right-back was in the right place at the right time as he met Rodney’s knock-down to give Vale a half-time lead.
However, after the break the home side came more into the game with a succession of corner. Brown made another good save before Iron debutant Loft made it level on 68 minutes.
John Askey brought on Robinson and Whitehead for Cullen and Burgess and the game looked to be heading for penalties before a dramatic late intervention from Vale sub Robinson. He was alert to Worrall’s deep cross and poked the ball home from close range. The goal came in the third minute of injury time which gave Scunthorpe no chance of equalised. The Valiants closed out the game to reach Sunday’s second-round draw.
It was a good start to the new season by Vale. Some familiar faces (Brown, Joyce, Legge, Conlon and Worrall) all had good games but fans will be encouraged that the new signings also impressed. His goal apart, Mills looked a good player at right-back, Fitzpatrick put in a solid show at left-back, Rodney gave glimpses of what he can offer while Robinson’s cameo won the game. Roll on Tuesday and Tranmere…
DISCUSS THE GAME ON THE FORUMPort Vale team
Brown, Mills, Smith, Legge, Fitzpatrick, Joyce, Burgess (Whitehead), Conlon, Worrall, Cullen (Robinson), Rodney
Subs: Visser, Trickett-Smith, Hurst, Brisley, Crookes