VALE SLIP CLOSER TO DROP

NO JOY: Port Vale suffered a 1-0 defeat at Doncaster Rovers to increase their fears of dropping out of League One this season.

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PORT Vale's predicament at the foot of the League One standings became even more precarious after last night’s 1-0 defeat at Doncaster Rovers.

Elijah Campbell inadvertently directed Jamie Sterry’s strike into his own net in the first half to settle the contest in South Yorkshire.

The Valiants could have few complaints about the result as they failed to back up their weekend performance which had seen them beat Bolton Wanderers.

Another victory was essential for Vale to give themselves hope of launching a late dash for survival.

But, as it was, they couldn't muster a sustained attacking threat and ended the night 11 points from safety with nine matches to play.

The win extended Doncaster’s unbeaten run to five games - and in the process pushed them further clear of the relegation zone.

For the Valiants, though, it brought an end to their love affair with visits to Doncaster, which had seen them win four and draw one of their previous five trips.

Vale boss Jon Brady made two changes to the side which had performed superbly to defeat promotion-chasing Bolton at the weekend.

Ben Garrity was replaced in midfield by Jordan Shipley, while a switch at the back saw Cameron Humphreys slot in ahead of Liam Gordon.

The encounter started at a frantic pace, with Rovers having the chance to break the deadlock inside the opening minute.