Vale fielded a strong side with new loan signing Knutsishvili leading the line.

The game was played on a grass surface that was in excellent condition despite the bad weather the area had been experiencing.

Vale started the game well, playing some nice football and had the upper hand during the early stages of the game.

Their play deserved a goal but several chances were not taken, and they were especially unlucky when a Sean Stewart shot came back of the inside of the post resulting in a melee in the six yard box before the ball being cleared of the line.

However, against the run of play in the 35 minute Jack Guthrie darted into the box and placed the ball passed Gilpin to give the University the lead.

This goal gave the University a lift and the Vale were under the cosh for the remaining minutes of the first half.

HT 1-0

Vale started the second half as they had started the first and were rewarded in the 47 minute when a ball launched by the Vale goalkeeper was missed by the University defence and Sean Stewart ran on to it before lobbing it over the oncoming goalkeeper.

The goal led to an entertaining second half with both teams chasing the winner, with the Vale having the majority of the play and best chances, and the University being dangerous on the break.

This was a good performance by the Vale, which again highlighted the fact that on a good surface they can play some attractive football, and can consider themselves unlucky not to have taken the three points.

The debut of Knutsishvili was also promising with his good link up play and powerful running.

FT 1-1