Following the request from Chester for an early kick off Vale agreed even though Manager Dan Rainford faced a selection problem to solve with so many attending the wedding of Vale stalwart, Aiden Yates. Eventually a formidable squad was assembled comprising a strong pack and talented back division for 09.45 leave. The fact that both the Seconds and Thirds were not only able to defeat their opponents but could field teams of competitive players reflects enormously on the spirit within the club.
Despite the heavy rain during the week the playing surface was in good condition and straight from the kick off Chester put Vale under pressure but the visitors calmly organised their defensive lines and eventually drove Chester out of the danger zone.
Joe Stevens, Bobby Holdbrook and Adam Foxcroft were in the thick of the action from the whistle and through their efforts Vale started to play on the front foot. Unfortunately Vale's enthusiasm got the better of them and they started to concede penalties with the final total standing at 18 awarded against the Seconds and 3 against Chester.
The front row of Joe Stevens, Ewan Hutchinson and Dom Griffiths worked well together as a united pod and caused their opposite numbers numerous problems. Adam Foxcroft and Joe Harrison put extra pressure on the Chester pack and along with Bobby Holdbrook who locked up the scrum, Chester were continually driven back.
Joe Wallbank and Shane weed added extra beef but somehow Vale's powerhouse racked up the penalties as Chester struggled to contain an ever present threat to their line. Scrum half Jacob Thomas looked comfortable behind the pack, always probing for an opening and sharp throughout, he formed a useful partnership with his stand off, Jamie Antcliffe. Threequarters, Alex Batson and Alfie Bolton were a contrast in styles but playing off ache others strengths the made life uncomfortable for Chester's defenders.
Harrison Dodge was injured in the warm up meaning that Ryan Fawcett had to relinquish his seat on the bench for a place on the wing. His opposite number, Adam Dalton, had a steady game in what developed into a swift moving encounter, ideal for full back, Ryan “Buzzer” Busby to go through his repertoire.
The deadlock was broken in the 20th minute when Joe Harrison used his weight and size to full advantage, crossing the line with three Chester players on his back, his try being converted comfortably by “Buzzer.”
Chester always looked dangerous outside the scrum and they forced Vale to scramble on a number of occasions but gritty defending denied the hosts. Just before half time Jacob Thomas scooped up a loose ball to wriggle over for a try which Buzzer converted to give his side a comfortable lead before the break.
Chester made changes to their line up at half time but Dan Rainford matched them bringing on Noki Ngan Hoo and Stuart Taylor for Joe Harrison and Ryan Fawcett. Fresh legs appeared to suit Chester the better and their speedy backs fashioned an unconverted try as tension in Vale's camp began to rise.
A converted try from Chester produced what sir Alex famously referred to as “Squeaky bum time!” for both Vale players and their supporters. Cool heads were the order of the day in the closing ten minutes, Vale's discipline held firm and all the players are to be congratulated on their efforts in ensuring a glorious victory.
On Saturday the Seconds face Wilmslow at home in a first round tie of the NOWIRUL Jug competition, kick off is at 3.00 pm.

Vale 2: J Stevens, D Griffiths, E Hutchinson; J Harrison, A Foxcroft; J Wallbank, S Weed, B Holdbrook. J Thomas, J Antcliffe; A Dalton, A Batson, A Bolton, H Dodge; R Busby, Reps: R Fawcett, K N Woo, S Taylor.

Thanks to Fred Swarbrick for match details and photograph.