Defender Ben Heneghan’s late header earned Port Vale a draw in their final friendly match of the summer.
Darren Moore included two trialists in his starting line-up and another on the bench. The trialist in goal was widely considered to be former Everton keeper Billy Crellin while the striker was believed to be Wolves youngster Fletcher Holman. There were also starts for Jordan Shipley, Liam Gordon and Rhys Walters.
The home side were first to threaten with a series of half chances. It was the home side who continued to attack in the first forty five minutes and they took the lead at the interval thanks to a goal from Keaton Ward.
Defender Kyle John had Vale’s first attempt on 50 minutes and Vale had appeals for a penalty turned down four minutes later. Jordan Shipley was next to threaten but his effort was saved. The Vale then drew level on 70 minutes when Heneghan headed home from Richards’ cross.
The Valiants then had late efforts for Gordon and Plant but neither could find the net.
That proved to be the last incident of note as it ended all-square after ninety minutes.
Port Vale match stats
Vale side: Trialist – John (Lomax), Heneghan, Hart – Plant, Shipley (Shorrock), Croasdale, Walters, Gordon – Trialist (Richards), Stockley (Trialist)
Goals: Heneghan (70)
Attendance: 1,333 (379 visitors)
We are grateful to Nick Barber photography for the image of Ben Heneghan.
I know it’s a friendly but some players were pathetic , it’s going to be a long season
I know it’s early day s but things are not looking good.
Little or nothing to set pulses racing in 9 pre-season friendlies. All about fitness and squad cohesion yes, while hoping for signs of optimism. Some players conspicuous with their absence including Garrity and Curtis, and especially new signing Gabriel. Difficult to fathom what Moore considers his strongest starting line up, and his first selection at Rotherham could again be contentious. Supporter expectations will be realistic and measured in what promises to be a tough season. Mid lower table finish and safety would be an achievement.