The Valiants contrived to throw away a two goal lead against League Two side Plymouth Argyle in their FA Cup Third Round tie. The only consolation was that Vale can count themselves rather fortunate to have a second bite at the cherry after being outplayed for much of the encounter.
Any hopes of a lucrative fourth round draw were dashed when the two sides discovered that a home tie with Championship side Brighton was the reward for a win.
In blustery conditions, Vale were fortunate to take a 2-0 lead owing to headed goals from Gavin Tomlin and Tom Pope. However, Vale`s porous defence was in further evidence as the visitors fought back to secure a replay. Some strange substitutions left the Valiants out-numbered and over run in midfield. A serious looking injury to Richard Duffy, later diagnosed as a sprained ankle, highlights the need for reinforcements, something that appears unlikely after listening to Chairman Norman Smurthwaite`s comments before the game.
Manager Micky Adams couldn`t contain his disappointment at the performance. “I don`t want to sugar-coat anything, that was poor. We are lucky, lucky people to be still in the equation.
“I think there are obviously key moments in games. I think Jennison Myrie-Williams going through with the last kick of the first half, if he makes it three-nil it`s game over.
“The defending was awful, in the second half especially. We went deeper and deeper – it was a strong wind and you have got to squeeze up the pitch as far as you can.
“We just went deeper and deeper, allowed the space in front of us, it got bigger, and it got wider for the midfield players to get closer to their back four.
“We didn`t get hold of it up front, the midfield lads didn`t get hold of the ball , didn`t pass it well enough, but I think the main thing from their point of view was they had got nothing to lose, obviously.”
The replay will be held at Home Park on Tuesday 14th January, with a 7.45pm kick off.
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