Pope Shines In Cathedral City

Tom Pope continued his fine goal scoring form as the Valiants made it five consecutive away wins with an impressive performance at Exeter yesterday. Scoring his 10 and 11th goals of the season, Pope became the quickest Vale player to reach double figures since 1933, not something many supporters would have envisaged at the end of last season. While Pope has returned fitter and seemingly more focused, there can be little doubt that the introduction of two wingers in Jennison Myrie-Williams and Ashley Vincent has made a significant contribution to his improved form. Once again the pair combined to provide the assists for the striker to head home expertly. Myrie-Williams left the Grecians defence in his wake following a blistering run, before finding Pope at the back post with his cross for the first goal. Vincent complimented his partner during the second half when his teasing centre was finished by Pope. Given that teams have packed the midfield at Vale Park over recent weeks, the increased space away from home for Vale`s dynamic duo seems to be reaping rewards.

One blow for Vale boss Micky Adams was an injury to Captain Doug Loft, who now looks set for a prolonged absence after pulling a calf muscle. Nevertheless, Adams was happy to return to winning ways, although cautioned against increasing talk of promotion. "We never mention it because we are a long way from that. We are only 10 games into the season and it is a bit early to be talking about promotion.

"We are just delighted with our form and we will keep that going if we can."

With Vale sitting in second place, a takeover of the club can`t come quickly enough, as a couple of additions to the squad, notably a left back and a striker would give supporters genuine reason to believe the season could have a positive conclusion.

The Vale make the short trip down the M6 to visit League One side Walsall on Tuesday in the 2nd Round of the Johnstone`s Paint Trophy. It is pay on the gate for visiting supporters. See you there!

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