Challenging times – Port Vale manager Darrell Clarke on Newport defeat and injury list

Port Vale manager Darrell Clarke says there were “no excuses” for Port Vale’s loss at Newport but admits it has been “challenging and tough” as Vale’s injury-hit squad hit a tough part of the season.

The Valiants were missing eight players – Jamie Proctor, James Wilson, George Lloyd, Devante Rodney, David Worrall, David Amoo, Alex Hurst and Jake Taylor – for this game with youth teamer Eden Bailey the club’s only fit centre-forward. Makeshift striker Ben Garrity gave the Valiants the lead but they eventually succumbed to constant Newport pressure as they conceded two second-half goals to lose 2-1.

There was a lot wrong with the performance if I am honest with you but I don’t want to be too critical of my boys that are putting their bodies on the line in challenging times…

Clarke told the media: “It was a very tough afternoon if I’m honest with you. It was nowhere near the standards we have set really. We always seemed to be hanging on. I think it was the fourth away game. I don’t like making excuses for my players but we lacked a bit of juice in our legs I thought, lacked a bit of control.

“There was a lot wrong with the performance if I am honest with you but I don’t want to be too critical of my boys that are putting their bodies on the line in challenging times.

“There will be no excuses from myself. It is challenging and tough times but we have to be a lot better. I think the week is going to do us good. I think the players need a mental rest and recharge.”