Five thoughts after Port Vale’s home draw with Forest Green Rovers
Pope to stay in the centre? Rob Fielding shares his thoughts on a disappointing draw with Forest Green…
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Two games that follow the same pattern
It really goes without saying but the parallels with Colchester were there on Tuesday. Early domination with nothing to show, finally going ahead, a defensive lapse leaking a goal and the final result being a frustrating draw. If Port Vale are to reach the play-offs, they need to produce some consistent form. For me, it’s one thing to have a leaky defence that is conceding goals here and there but the more important issue is the failure to convert chances. If the side had been, say, 3-0 up in the opening exchanges on Tuesday, that Aaron Collins strike would have counted for nothing. It was the same on Saturday. If Vale had converted their chances, then Colchester’s goal would have been a mere consolation. The Valiants really can’t afford to have strong starts but have nothing on the scoresheet to show for them.
No perfect option but time for Pope to get a run?
The problem with the central striker role is that all of the candidates have strengths and weaknesses. Mark Cullen showed promise last season but has been hit with injuries. Tom Pope is experienced but lacks pace. Devante Rodney has pace and power but lacks experience. Theo Robinson is a proven goalscorer but lacks form. So there’s no perfect option upfront. However, with the pace of Hurst and Rodney on either side of him, Pope looked the best option on Tuesday. His ability to hold the ball, his aerial ability and his often unsung passing ability all impressed. Not only that but arguably he “scored” the goal which was then credited as an own-goal. The veteran has earned the right to start the next game in the centre.
A better game for the central midfield
Despite the absence of Manny Oyeleke this was a better game for the central midfielders. Scott Burgess drifted in and out of the game but when he hit the high notes he was so nearly the match winner, particularly his run and shot against the woodwork. Tom Conlon was full of energy, tricks and well worked free-kicks and did well. Luke Joyce, who has come in for some criticism this season, also enjoyed a good game in my view. Joyce was the spare man who picked up the ball when it went loose from attacks and started the next move from his deep lying position.
Contrasting styles on the wings
There was two distinct styles on display on the flanks on Tuesday. Alex Hurst scampered past defenders, using guile to deliver some good crosses. On the opposite wing, Devante Rodney was all pace and power with the occasional touch of quality (and the occasional mis-step). Both look promising options for the future but it could be argued both faded as the game went on. It may be nit picking but if the pair can build on their skills and put in a full ninety minute display it will be a real bonus for a Vale side missing Montano and Worrall.
The transfer window – wheeler dealer time?
With Vale’s squad looking like it needs some tweaking, attention has turned to the January window. For many, it’s obvious that what the squad needs is another option upfront. However, with the restrictions on players in place, Vale would currently be restricted to a youngster on loan (which unless they are very lucky may not be the consistent scorer the side needs). Otherwise, they need to move experienced players on to allow new ones in. Who will they choose to let go? I wonder if an agreement can be reached with 25 year-old Dan Trickett Smith? His future seemingly doesn’t lie with Port Vale and it may be best for both parties to allow him the chance to move on. His departure could pave the way for a new forward to be brought in.
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Phil Yeomans
17th December 2020 @ 4:38 pm
Tom should be starting games as the other options have not proved to show the consistency or sufficient goals. Although we only conceded the one goal there were to many occasions when we looked likely to concede with defenders being left isolated and vulnerable across the back four and cover should be in place rather than one long ball taking all defenders out of play.
Keith Dawson
17th December 2020 @ 8:57 pm
I thought the overall performance against Forest Green was pretty good, Vale created chances but yet again it was poor defending that cost us their goal. Legge always looked in trouble when he was left exposed and their attacker took full advantage. I think the interesting area was the return of Pope, with Rodney getting passed their fullback with relative ease it was only matter of time before we took the lead. To be fair both teams could have and should have increased their tally but I would say Vale only have themselves to blame, especially Burgess who managed to miss the target from 10 yards with the goal at his mercy. So onto Saturday, Walsall isn’t a place where we perform at our best but this is an unusual year so who knows, let’s hope that Askey has a couple of important players available so that he can go with Rodney and Worrall wide and Pope up top with Manny in the middle of the park adding a bit of bite, if this is the case I fancy Vale to get a positive result. Keep the faith Valiants