Hartlepool Utd 0-1 Port Vale – Hall winner edges Valiants closer to League One
A second-half header by defender Connor Hall boosted Vale’s promotion hopes as they scraped an away victory against Hartlepool United.
The Valiants had to make do without the injured David Worrall who was replaced in the starting line-up by youngster Ryan Edmonson.
After a cautious opening from both teams it was Pools who were first to force a chance as Bryn Morris’ searching pass almost found Omar Bogle only for Connor Hall to force Aidan Stone to push behind for a corner. Tom Crawford then tried his luck with a dipping volley from the edge of the area which went just over the bar.
However, the Valiants had arguably the best chance of the half as Ryan Edmondson’s cross found Ben Garrity but he directed his header wide.
Half-time: Hartlepool Utd 0-0 Port Vale
The Vale were nearly gifted an opening goal in the early stages of the second-half when a poorly directed header nearly beat the United keeper, who managed to get back and clear it off the line. Brad Walker then had an effort on target.
Vale increased the pressure and were rewarded on 67 minutes when Hall was on hand to dispatch sub Jake Taylor’s excellent cross.
The Valiants effectively coped with some late pressure from the home side to take home three points and further boost their chances of automatic promotion. A home win against Bristol Rovers on Monday will make it an excellent Easter and surely leave Vale in pole position to go up.
Full-time: Hartlepool Utd 0-1 Port Vale
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Match stats
Port Vale: Stone; Smith, Martin, Hall; Edmondson (Hussey), Garrity, Charsley, Walker (Taylor), Benning; Proctor, Wilson (Harratt)
Subs: Holy, Jones, Amoo, Robinson
Attendance: 5,517