Wembley in sight for electric Robins
Port Vale welcome Swindon Town to Vale Park on Thursday evening in looking to overcome a one goal deficit in their League Two play-off semi final second leg.
The Robins were the better side for extended periods at The County Ground and Josh Davison passed up an opportunity to give them a 3-0 lead, only for James Wilson to scramble home with a deft left footed finish to keep the tie alive.
Vale have been on a downward spiral and were fancied to finish in the top three towards the end of the campaign, whereas Ben Garner’s Robins ended the season with four wins on the bounce to bulldoze their way into the top six from the back of the pack.
Background
Swindon have some luxury players for League Two level with one of the best midfield trios on paper in Louis Reed, Jack Payne and Jonny Williams.
With Louie Barry, Harry McKirdy and Davison forming a formidable front three.
The Robins lost Tyreece Simpson to a recall from Ipswich Town in January and form dipped a bit afterwards, but with the form McKirdy is in they are looking as dangerous as ever.
The 25-year-old will likely be playing in League One next season with or without Swindon Town.
David Worrall is an elite wide player for fourth tier level, but he struggled to impact the first leg, the reliable should have a greater influence on the game at Vale Park, but they do have a lot to conquer.
Jamie Proctor changed the game when introduced from the bench in the first leg, and he will probably replace Ryan Edmondson in partnering ex-Manchester United striker James Wilson in the final third.
Goals?
This one could be very exciting, the weather conditions impacted the quality at times in the first leg, but Swindon will arrive knowing that taking the lead would put them in a brilliant position, they had the best away record in League Two after all.
Vale have scored in nine of ten.
Vale have conceded in six of ten.
Vale have seen both teams score in five of ten.
Vale have seen over 2.5 goals in five of ten.
Swindon have scored in eight of ten.
Swindon have conceded in seven of ten.
Swindon have seen both teams score in six of ten.
Swindon have seen over 2.5 goals in eight of ten.
Swindon have the edge and are the more in form side, if Vale can keep a clean sheet they have a good chance, but against that forward line and creative contingent, they may have their work cut out.
Post bet chat Marcus's Tips:
1-0 Vale on the night and the hosts prevailed on penalties.