Wrexham 2-1 Port Vale report – youthful Valiants side beaten in final group game
Josh Thomas’ third goal in Port Vale colours was not enough as a youthful Valiants side was defeated in its final Football League Trophy group game.
Andy Crosby rang the changes for what was a dead rubber game. Youngsters Ben Lomax and Andrew Buah made their full debuts with both impressing. Lomax looked composed on the right of a back three while Buah caused the home defence some problems with his runs. Rhys Walters also started in midfield while the returning Tommy McDermott was on the bench,
Vale impressed during the first-half and a slick move saw them take the lead on the half-hour move. A sliderule pass from Walters found Massey and his cross was converted at close range by the onrushing Thomas. Vale had further chances for Loft and Buah but could not add to their lead.
At the break, Vale were looking good value for their lead with Lomax slotting in seamlessly in defence, Walters providing some delightful passes from midfield and with keeper Leutwiler rarely under pressure.
However, the game turned on the hour mark when Wrexham brought on experienced duo James McLean and Paul Mullin. From that moment, Vale’s defence was put under pressure as Wrexham took control.
On seventy minutes, Mullin levelled things up from close range from a cross from McLean. Thirteen minutes later, McLean won it when he headed home from a corner.
Vale’s three game cup run ends with a loss but there are still positives to be found from this game. There were more minutes for Ryan Loft as he continues to find fitness, Josh Thomas scored another goal to push his claims, Walters looked composed in midfield and Lomax slotted in seamlessly at the back. And despite the result, Vale still progress to the next round.
Port Vale: Leutwiler – Lomax, Smith, Debrah (Mahaffey) – Massey, Conlon (McDermott), Walters, Chislett (Brazier), Buah – Thomas (Cousins), Loft (Dipepa)
Subs: Ripley, Plant
Port Vale goal: Thomas
Port Vale bookings: McDermott
Attendance: 7,870 (673 visitors)