by Steve Shaw

GARETH Owen won't be seeking revenge tonight despite suffering a broken heart – and cheekbone – at Valley Parade four months ago.

Vale were sent crashing out of the Johnstone's Paint Trophy in November, when Bradford booked their place in the northern section semi-finals with a 5-4 penalty shoot-out win.

Their Wembley dream lay in tatters, while Owen was left with a broken cheekbone following an accidental clash of heads.

"It was a totally freak accident and I hold no grudges," said the defender ahead of tonight's home clash with Bradford (7.45pm).

"I'll be heading balls like I do every week and, hopefully, we can pick up three points.

"It would be nice to score a goal this time instead of having a head planted on my cheekbone.

"But these things happen and you just get on with it – I don't look at any fixture and think I've got to re-double my efforts."

Vale will come up against a rejuvenated Bantams, now managed by former England caretaker boss Peter Taylor.

Taylor, who led Wycombe to promotion from League Two last season, replaced Bradford legend Stuart McCall last month.

He has guided the Bantams to three wins in five games, which has left them 16th, three places and three points adrift of Vale having played a game less.

Taylor has recruited five players since his arrival, including ex-Wycombe striker Gavin Grant, who has joined on non-contract terms.

He has also completed the loan signings of defenders Robbie Threlfall (Liverpool) and Luke Oliver (Wycombe), plus midfielder Adam Bolder (Millwall) and striker Mark McCammon (Gillingham).

The Bantams have doubts over Grant (ankle) and midfielder Luke O'Brien (ankle) for their trip to Burslem.

Vale continue to be without striker Geoff Horsfield (calf) and Dave Howland (knee).

Horsfield believes "new manager syndrome" could prove to be Bradford's biggest weapon. Vale's assistant manager said: "It is going to be hard because as soon as a new manager comes in some players raise their game.

"Peter's got them organised and he's brought in some good loan signings, like Bolder and Threlfall.

"They are quality players who play for clubs at a higher level.

"We've got to be up and at them and set the tempo tonight, and we need the fans in full voice."

Taylor has taken charge of England's Under-21s and led the senior squad as caretaker, following Kevin Keegan's departure in 2000.

But Horsfield added: "As soon as his players cross that white line Peter can't help them, although I know he can coach them, lay out formations and tell them what to do.

"If we can get in their faces early on, hopefully we can get the right result."