Doncaster Rovers 0-1 Port Vale – late Harper goal settles drab cup encounter

Rakeem Harper’s first Vale goal put the side into the next round of the Football League Trophy. Here’s our match report…

Team news

Manager Darren Moore made eleven changes to his side with defender Mitch Clark making his return to the side after injury. Ben Amos was in goal, Nathan Smith in defence while Diamond Edwards also started.

It was goalless at the break after a largely uninspiring first forty five minutes. Vale had a couple of chances with Paton drawing a save and Jack Shorrock firing just wide. However, the home side had the better chances twice striking the woodwork.

However, the majority of play was a tough watch with neither side able to keep possession and too many final balls going astray. There was also an injury worry for Vale with Byers appearing to pick up a knock.

Half-time: Doncaster 0-0 Port Vale

It was a brighter start by Vale as Shorrock broke early on but his cross evaded Paton. Doncaster countered with two efforts which drew saves out of Amos. There was another surging run by Shorrock and a drive from Lowe as the game opened up a little.

Although the game continued to be largely uninspiring, it was Vale who made the decisive move. As play entered additional time, the ball reached Harper in the box and he turned and shot home to settle it in Vale’s favour.

It may not have been the most memorable game but it at least ended Vale’s mini slump and put them into the hat for the next round.

Full-time: Doncaster 0-1 Port Vale

Stats

Starting XI: Amos – Clark (Hart), Smith, Heneghan, Grant – Edwards (Richards), Byers (Harper), Lowe, Shorrock (John) – Paton (Hackford), Tolaj

Subs: Davies, Chislett

Goals: Harper (92)

Bookings: John

Attendance: 

Competition: FLT knock-out stages

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