JPT times as we take on the Valiants on Tuesday night, Vale have Rob Page in charge after Micky ZAdams departure a few weeks ago. They lost in Cod land yesterday and had Slew sent off. They lie in the relegation zone and have only won twice in the league this season. Still have Tom Pope in the side although he is finding goals harder to get at this level, still useful though. Wiseman, Hayhurst and Browne on international duty, Laird, Woods, Little and Davies injured, Wright carrying an injury every possibility that Reid, Robinson and Ryan will make their debuts. Would be nice to win but if we lose so be it. International break, this weekend no game before we play Port Vale again in the league.
The scoreline was deceptive, North End won this with comfort last night. Although a late Pope header gave the scoreline respectability North End were in control from beginning to end. A quiet start with little to enthuse Reid put over a cross which caused confusion and Humphrys cashed in by firing left footed past Neal. North End cruised through the first half without really looking like adding a second. Vale's had a half chance cleared before Zuber's shot nearly demolished the corner flag. The home side were rocked when Pope headed powerfully home in the first couple of minutes after a needless free kick was given away. Vale were not level for long as Garner majestically chip the ball over Neal from 20 yards. It was soon 3-1 as Humphrys' mazy run ended up with a cross which was forced home by Gallagher. North End eased off and were nearly made to pay for this when Pope made it 3-2. Dickenson had a chance to level the score but his tame shot went wide in injury time. A step closer to Wembley, the draw for the next round is on Saturday hopefully we will be drawn away, then I can have a Tuesday night in. Preston North End 3 Port Vale 2 Att 3800
You were correct...Tom Pope is useful. The last game I saw at the old Deepdale was NE losing 1 - 3 to PV. As far as the grey cells can must up, I think it was the firstgame of the season and John McGrath was the manager. I think it was 1986. PV had 3 huge forwards that overwhelmed the NE defence but McGrath produced a turn around in form. I took my 2 sons but they were bored to death!
Aye Big John a crazy fella who sadly lost the plot in a cup tie at Whitley Bay and sadly no longer with us. Nearly 30 years since he was manager and it is that long since the plastic pitch was laid as well. Time soon goes remember it well.
