Port Vale 1-0 Salford: Cristian Montano’s superb volley proved the matchwinner but it was goalkeeper Scott Brown who was arguably the hero as the Valiants ended their poor run of form.
John Askey made changes after the poor loss to Carlisle with former Salford duo Devante Rodney and Danny Whitehead both starting.
After a dour start, Vale started to have opportunities but they tended to be half-chances. Cristian Montano’s shot lacked power and Nathan Smith blazed over from inside the box. However, any clear cut chances were few and far between as Rodney struggled in a central position.
The most clear cut chance came Salford’s way as Legge fouled in the box and veteran Ian Henderson stepped up to take the penalty. However, Scott Brown made a fine save and the striker somehow blazed the follow up over the bar.
Salford started the second-half the stronger and there was another great save from Brown as he denied Toure. However, the game was then disrupted due to a serious injury to Darron Gibson whose foot caught in the turf.
As the half progressed, Vale were starting to create chances and good work from Worrall set up Danny Whitehead but his shot was saved.
John Askey opted to bring on forward Theo Robinson and it proved crucial as he played a major part in the winning goal. Robinson went wide on an attack and his fine cross was headed down by Worrall for Montano to emphatically volley home.
There were eight minutes of injury time played with Salford sub Elliott going inches wide with a cross shot but Vale held firm to record a win. There were some fine performances across the side including the reliable central duo of Smith and Legge plus the welcome return of Joyce and Conlon in the midfield. It was a welcome win for John Askey but questions still remain about who should start upfront.
Full-time: Port Vale 1-0 Salford
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Port Vale: Brown – Clark, Smith, Legge, Fitzpatrick – Joyce, Conlon, Whitehead (Brisley) – Montano, Rodney (Robinson), Worrall
Subs: Visser, Crookes, Pope, Burgess
Vale need to have a settled side. I know injuries are playing a big factor but with all players fit does John Askey know his strongest side? That is no criticism of John who is doing a fantastic job. This afternoon it seemed as though the Vale lost sight of the pressing game they are good at playing Question mark Oyeleke fantastic player but is he a white elephant with injuries?