OK, so the odds are firmly stacked against the Valiants – but stranger things have happened in the game… Here’s our big match preview.
Vale viewpoint
Essentials
- Opposition: Chelsea
- Date: Saturday 4th April, 5:15pm
- Competition: FA Cup quarter-final
- Viewing guide: BBC and TNT Sports in the UK
Talking points
A first clash in living memory
Given that the last time these teams met was back in 1929, this represents a chance for Vale fans to see their team at Stamford Bridge for the first time in living memory. Will it be an unforgettable game?
Can Vale bounce back?
If you’re looking for good preparation for a visit to a Premier League side then a 4-0 loss to Wycombe Wanderers probably isn’t the best. Manager Jon Brady could well be tempted into changes as a result of that game. He also welcomes back Liam Gordon and Ben Waine from International duty and the duo could also feature.
Known injury list
George Byers, Jayden Stockley and Ben Heneghan remain doubts. Jaheim Headley picked up a knock on Saturday and could also be a doubt.
Possible Vale line-up (3-5-2)
Gauci – John, Humphreys, C.Hall – Gabriel, Ojo, Garrity, Walters, Gordon – Waine, Brown
Stamford Bridge – new ground for Vale fans
Opposition briefing
Essentials
- Name: Chelsea
- Manager: Liam Rosenior
- Stadium: Stamford Bridge
Need to know
Meet the manager
41 year-old Liam Rosenior was appointed as head coach in January. He has previously managed Strasbourg and Hull City. His record for the Blues stands at ten wins from 19 games in charge.
Recent form
Poor. Chelsea are five games without a win in League and Cup competitions.
How they got there
Chelsea won 4-2 at Wrexham in the fifth round.
Manager Liam Rosenior
Opposition history
Essentials
- Record League appearance holder: 795, Ron Harris
- Record League goalscorer: 211, Frank Lampard
- Record FA Cup win (just in case): 9-1 vs Worksop Town, 1908
Over the years
History in fifty words
Founded in 1905, Chelsea FC found early success before a golden era in the 1960s and 70s. The 2003 Roman Abramovich era transformed them into a global powerhouse, winning multiple Premier League titles and two Champions Leagues. Today, the “Blues” remain one of England’s most successful and iconic football clubs.
Stadium
Chelsea have only had one home ground, Stamford Bridge, where they have played since the team’s foundation. The stadium was officially opened on 28 April 1877.
Stamford Bridge stadium
Archive
This site is thirty years old and has thousands of posts. Here are a couple to feature the opposition.
Head-to-head
How it stands
- Vale wins: 3
- Vale losses: 7
- Draws: 4
Previous games
Fixture history
The two sides first met in the 1905-06 season with the Valiants winning the game 3-2. George Price was the first Vale player to score against Chelsea. The reverse fixture was less celebrated as Vale lost 7-0 a Stamford Bridge. The last visit to Stamford Bridge ended in a dramatic 3-3 draw during the 1928-29 season.
Last time we met
The last match took place at the Old Recreation Ground in 1929. It finished 1-0 to Vale with Alf Pynegar scoring the winner.
Matches have been few and far between
Craig Rocastle – one of a select club
Played for both
Connections
There haven’t been many transfers between the two clubs over the years. Vale have signed three players on loan from Chelsea – striker Joe Allon, targetman Steve Livingstone and midfielder Tom Taiwo. Former Vale players Anthony Grant, Craig Rocastle and ‘Jock’ Cameron all had previous spells as Chelsea players.
Predict the score
Have your say
Discuss the game
Want to discuss things before, during and after the game? Our forum’s dedicated match thread is the place to be. Share your views with fellow fans
Join the debate:
Stamford Bridge stadium
Test your knowledge
Have you been paying attention? Here’s our traditional preview quiz
Who is the current Chelsea manager?
What the score the last time we met?
How many times have Vale beaten Chelsea?
Who was the first Vale player to score against Chelsea?
What the score the last time we met?
How many times have Vale beaten Chelsea?
Who was the first Vale player to score against Chelsea?
(answers right – no cheating)
Answers
Quiz answers
- Liam Rosenior
- Chelsea 3-3 Port Vale
- 3
- George Price
Quiz ratings
Today’s theme is players to appear for both clubs
0/4 – Tom Taiwo
1/4 – Craig Rocastle
2/4 – Steve Livingstone
3/4 – Joe Allon
4/4 – Anthony Grant
I see from the title that you say that stranger things have happened – do you have any examples as I am stumped.
Phil Dale – I think there have been plenty of examples from English football over the years. In recent years, Bradford beat Chelsea at Stamford Bridge to name just one example… Sutton United beat cup holder Coventry City… Back in 1898, non-league Vale beat Sheff Utd (who would win the title that season). So, they are few and far between (for a good reason) but they do happen.
As we found out at Man City it’s a different world now. Perfect pitches, benches full of more internationals than some league two teams get gates. None contact football. Far from the days of “ get amongst them lads”. Very, very different. Gone the days of pitches levelling things up, and hardened lower league players out muscling their fancy Dan opposition !