Port Vale: Adams urges fans' backing
by Steve Shaw
MICKY Adams has issued a rallying cry to Port Vale's long-suffering fans on the eve of their new League Two campaign.
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Last season, around 6,400 season-ticket holders witnessed a record 11 home league defeats.
This time, Vale have sold around 3,850 season tickets after finishing last season in a lowly 18th position.
But as they prepare to open the campaign with a home clash against Rochdale tomorrow (3pm), Adams has urged fans to leave the past behind.
Adams said: "When a season starts, fans are generally upbeat and optimistic about their team's chances in the league.
"I would expect the Vale fans to be no different, but if we continue in the vein we did last year, we've got no chance.
"We're talking about the team, which is the most important thing, but the fans can play a massive part in us trying to turn around the club's fortunes.
"If we are ever going to be successful, we have to get our home form right.
"So I would want the fans to come with an open mind, give everybody a chance and see what we can do."
Tomorrow's home gate could be as strong as 5,000, with Rochdale expected to bring up to 1,000 supporters.
Vale received a boost yesterday when new skipper Tommy Fraser returned to training.
The central midfielder has been sidelined with ankle ligament damage, but could yet make his competitive debut following his summer move from Brighton.
However, midfielder Simon Richman is ruled out with a pelvic complaint.
Goalkeeper Joe Anyon is nearing his recovery from a broken leg, but is not ready for first-team duties, leaving 18-year-old Chris Martin to deputise.
Transfer-listed Steve Thompson was sent off in Tuesday's 3-1 friendly defeat at Nantwich. However, the Football League have confirmed he will not face a suspension.
Dale certainly haven't panicked over the summer, however, with boss Keith Hill adding just three extra bodies to his squad – keepers Kenny Arthur (Accrington) and Matthew Edwards (Leeds), plus midfielder Jason Kennedy (Darlington).
Hill suffered a blow in pre-season when centre-half Rory McArdle dislocated his shoulder, an injury which threatens to rule him out until October.
The defender's absence is likely to hand 19-year-old defender Craig Dawson a first league start, playing alongside Nathan Stanton.
Central midfielder Ciaran Toner is also unlikely to make the trip as he is suffering from shin splints.
Striker Adam Le Fondre will be targeting another fruitful campaign after scoring 21 goals last season.
However, the 22-year-old has a slight calf problem and could be another doubt for the manager, whose injury problems seem to be piling up before a ball is kicked in anger.
Match Odds:
VALE'S campaign gets off to a potentially awkward start at home to Rochdale, who they beat 2-1 in the corresponding fixture last term.
A repeat of that scoreline is considered a 9/1 shot by Betfred.
Betdaq price Vale at 7/5 to secure three points, though Rochdale are offered at 7/4 by Blue Square.
With the match-win odds being so close, there is a sense that the sides may cancel each other out, hence the popularity of Ladbrokes' 9/4 price posted against the draw.
Elsewhere, bet365 chalk a tantalising 4/1 against Vale winning when starting with a one goal deficit and Stan James posts 11/1 about a 2-0 home success. Less precise folk may prefer the 5/1 available at Jaxx.com for Vale to win following a drawn first period.
Odds supplied by betrescue
Port Vale stories online today:
Bratt has no regrets over contract offers
More players could leave, says Adams
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