Prior to kick off Vale were disappointed to discover that Preston Grasshoppers had journeyed up the M6 with only 13 players and under league regulations the hosts had to reduce their squad to 14 players.
This arrangement appeared to suit the Vale who posted their highest points total of the season, scoring 14 tries, 7 in each half, with 9 being converted, in addition to completing the double over the visitors.
In a number crunching exercise 9 of the tries were scored by the forwards in a post Christmas bonanza including a hat trick from back row forward James Robinson. Jamie Antcliffe ensured the threequarters had something to high five about with his hat trick.
Jack Sadler, on his debut in the back row, made an instant impact, not only scoring a try but being named the “Peter Atkinson Man of the Match” following a robust performance.
The seconds inserted their first score in their ledger in the opening minutes and added to their total at regular intervals. As the Vale rampaged on the Crem pitch forwards Richard Hodgson with a brace and one each from his comrades, Matt Field, Joe Stevens and Tom Smith all helped the cause.
Tries from Ryan Busby and Alex Briggs, who also converted 9 of the tries, helped to fly the flag for the backs but it was game where the forwards made their strength and dominance the cornerstone of victory.
On Saturday the Vale travel to the hills to take on Rossendale, having won 74-6 at The Lane in November.