The seconds presented the opposition from scoring for the first time since April 7 when they won at home against Preston Grasshoppers thirds, 86-0.
In a hard fought, competitive encounter against Rossendale, few clear cut chances were created but overall the Vale were worthy winners and tucked away neatly the scoring chances they carved out.
First team call ups had a knock on effect so included in the ranks were a number of players either stepping up a grade or playing in unaccustomed positions. Aaron Melville, who has worn many different numbered jerseys in the threequarters was selected at scrum half, but this highly respected player, who is fast approaching his half century, rolled up his sleeves to produce a classy performance.
Petar Alexov is usually to be found in the pack but he added another string to his bow by trotting out in the backs where his hard direct running caused the opposition problems. Hooker Harm Dokter was a real bundle of energy throughout and had the great satisfaction of taking two scrums against the head, not an everyday occurrence in the modern game!
Rossendale had first use of the wind and compressed the Vale deep in their own half for long periods but the home side’s well organised defence was equal to the task with their pack forming a strong barrier.
In the eighteenth minute Petar Alexov set off on a mesmerising crossfield run with the forwards following on close behind. Rossendale eventually managed to shuffle the ball into touch and from the resultant line out Tom Smith aggressively barrelled his way over for an unconverted try.
Vale defended well a series of Rossendale raids and even when Petar Alexov was sin binned they were able to deal with everything that Rossendale threw at them in what had been a testing half.
Vale made full use of the elements at the start of the second forty pinning Rossendale down and in the fourth minute of the second half they extended their lead in style. From the tail of a line out Isaac Turton hurtled over for a try which Ryan Fawcett converted.
The game remained evenly poised, the Vale could not afford to drop their guard because Rossendale always posed a threat. The visitors had a big shout for a try but the eagled eyed referee Steve Ralston spotted that the ball had been dropped prior to it being touched down.
For the Vale it was a most satisfying victory, their second in Conference B in which all those who answered the call played an important role. Andrew Waite was voted man of the match, his tackling was strong and decisive and in addition he covered acres of ground to hunt the ball down. Matt Field was rock solid, Ciaran Sutcliffe again impressed until he was forced to retire with an injury. Joe Wallbank made an immediate impact when he came on as did Bobby Holdbrook who put himself about to good effect in the closing minutes.
Ryan Busby was busy throughout but it was authoritative calming influence of Aaron Melville, who guided those around him, to victory.