Woeful Vale Crushed By Stanley

For the first time this season Vale slip out of the play-off spots following a dismal defeat by John Coleman`s impressive Accrington side. The pressure is mounting on Jim Gannon as the travelling Vale fans called for his head in angry scenes towards the end of the game and the Irishman needed to be protected from the supporters for his own safety.

The Vale boss continued with his baffling team selections. He constantly changes the side to accommodate the opposition rather than trying to impose his style on the opposing team. What that style is, is another question entirely. Lee Collins was jettisoned so that Exodus Geohaghon could be found a spot in the side, this time at centre half, while Gary Roberts was not even in the squad. New loan signing Dominic Blizzard was preferred in midfield, although he was substituted at half time suffering with an obvious lack of match fitness.

Sean McConville put Stanley in front shortly before the interval and late strikes by Ian Craney and Andrew Procter, both with what seems their customary goals against the Vale, secured the win. Substitute Sean Rigg was dismissed for a challenge on Phil Edwards with ten minutes remaining, but Vale never threatened to take anything from the encounter.

On and off the pitch the season seems to be spiralling out of control. The Valiants currently look unlikely even to achieve a top seven position, something which was unthinkable at the start of December.

Vale at least have an immediate opportunity to put things right with Tuesday`s game against Hereford United. A win would see Vale move up to fourth. Wishful thinking?



Vital Port Vale on:

Vital Port Vale on: