Kidsgrove Athletic v Port Vale preview: second friendly game for Moore’s men

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Right, the playing break is over as the Valiants are back on the pitch with two friendly games in two days. Here is our preview of the Saturday game…

Preamble

Essentials

Opposition: Kidsgrove Athletic
Date: Saturday 28th June, 3pm
Competition: Friendly

So, that was quick wasn’t it? Football has returned and, as it customary, there are some new faces in the Vale line-up to look out for. With back-to-back games, it’s tricky to know how many new boys will be involved in this fixture and which will play in Friday’s game against Newcastle. We’ll have to wait and see.

The Opposition

Images: A general view of the stadium and joint-manager Tom Pope

Club essentials

Name: Kidsgrove Athletic
League: Northern Premier League
Managers: Matt Rhead and Tom Pope
Stadium: The Grove stadium

It’s fair to say that what could have been a pleasant encounter with former Vale striker Tom Pope has soured somewhat. Pope, Vale’s post-war record goalscorer has been appointed joint-manager of the Grove but a recent unseemly Twitter spat with a Port Vale supporter has upset some Port Vale supporters. Nevertheless, the fixture will now take place.

Connections

Images: former Valiants Lewis Bergin and Anthony Malbon

Connections

With all the controversy over a certain Mr Pope, it’s probably best to leave that subject alone. Other Port Vale connections include current defender Lewis Bergin, a graduate of the Port Vale youth ranks. A more well-known face is Anthony Malbon, a former Vale striker (and another youth team graduate) who has netted over 150 goals for the Grove.

Last time we met…

Images: Ronan Curtis scored while Baylee Dipepa played one of his final Vale games

Vale won their second friendly game in two games thanks to a goal from summer signing Ronan Curtis. Jayden Stockley also saw an effort chalked off for offside as it finished 1-0 to the Valiants after ninety minutes.