Port Vale 0-1 Kings Lynn Town match report (FA Cup)

Port Vale 0-1 Kings Lynn Town: Port Vale failed to take their chances as National League visitors Kings Lynn pulled off a shock FA Cup first round win at Vale Park.

John Askey named the same starting eleven that defeated Southend United but a sluggish Vale failed to make any meaningful chances in the opening half an hour. Things did liven up as the half drew to a close with the dangerous Simon Power hitting the side netting for the visitors, Tom Conlon having a close range shot saved and David Worrall having an effort tipped around the post. Vale had a concerning moment when Legge brought down Power when the forward broke clear but fortunately the defender only received a yellow. At the break it was goalless and all to play for.

There was a worrying moment early in the second-half when the visitors called for a penalty but that sparked a period of Vale pressure as Mitch Clark had a close range shot blocked as did David Amoo. Vale’s best chance came in the 67th minute when Conlon’s long-range effort was blocked but Worrall was flagged offside as he netted the rebound.

Vale were made to pay for those misses as the visitors countered expertly through sub Marriott who set up fellow substitute Carey to hit the ball into the net. Vale huffed and puffed in the closing stages and although sub McKirdy went close from an acute angle Vale could not conjure an equaliser. On numerous occasions good approach play failed to provide a killer pass or final ball. On the plus side, David Amoo and Mitch Clark looked dangerous on the right side but Vale need to be more ruthless if this season is to be a success.

It will be a hugely disappointing defeat for the Valiants who, in these financially challenged times, would have welcomed the money generated by a cup run but credit to Kings Lynn who defended well and whose counter attacking style proved to be highly effective.

Full-time: Port Vale 0-1 Kings Lynn Town