Less than a handful of players were representing the Vale this time around compared with the squad that faced Sale FC last December when a home 35-20 victory was recorded.

However, the Vale might have lacked experience but they played with courage, determination and at no stage did they haul out the white flags. Not only were a number of players out of position and their comfort zone, some were stepping up a couple of levels and all are to be congratulated in the efforts against a pacey, skilful Sale FC side which contained an influential stand off who was an expert at bringing out the best from those around him.

The writing was on the wall for the Vale inside the opening twenty minutes when the hosts had rattled in twenty four points and by half time their total had reached fifty two. Vale's defence worked hard to plug the gaps but were forced to reshuffle their line up when the injury list started to mount as the game progressed.

A similar pattern was repeated in the second half but even though the Vale spent long periods chasing shadows their spirits remained high. Their efforts and character were rewarded in the closing minutes when man of the match Tom Cvijanovic crossed for a try which was converted by stand off Sean Pedder, the number ten came through a testing encounter with a number of plusses on a day when all his teammates battle gamely until the final whistle.

Finally hats off to all those who ensured this opening Premier League fixture went ahead.

Vale of Lune 2: S Berrisford, S O'Brien, S Campbell; K Sharples, A Rich; S Harrison, T Cvijanovic, D Rainford (Capt); P Scott, S Pedder; A Irvine, M Thackray, L Birchall, D Hinchcliffe; J Reeves. Replacements: G McSporran, P Mount.