Opposition View: Lifelong Port Vale Fan Steven Crank Previews Notts County Clash

Introduction:

Name: Steven Crank.

How long have you supported Port Vale? 30 years.

Are you a season ticket holder? Unfortunately, not because of work.

Age? I’m 35.

Favourite Player? Stephen McPhee

Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you became a Port Vale fan? What are some of your earliest memories supporting the team?

I’m 35 years old and a forklift truck driver. I’ve been following the Vale since I was 3 years old. My Nan used to take me until I was old enough to go with the lads. My earliest memories are beating Stockport 2-1 at Wembley to win the league trophy. I was 4 years old.

What has been your most memorable match as a Port Vale supporter? Conversely, what has been the most heart-breaking moment for you?

Apart from all the times we have beaten Stoke in local derbies, my most memorable moment was beating Tranmere at home 2-1. We needed to win to keep the play-off hope alive. Steve McPhee scored a 92nd-minute winner out of nowhere. Amongst that, Tom Pope scoring at the Etihad or Leon Constantine scoring to put us 1 up away at Tottenham. On the flip side, my most heartbreaking moment has to be beating Rushden and Diamonds away to get into the play-offs, meanwhile Swindon and Hartlepool played for a draw which halted our play-off push on the final day of the season. A win by either team would have cemented our place.

How do you usually follow Port Vale matches? Do you prefer watching games live at the stadium, on TV, or listening to the radio?

With work commitments, I tend to watch on my stream or radio but go as much as I can. I’ve been to a fair few grounds as well, some that no longer exist.

What are your thoughts on Port Vale’s performance so far this season? Do you think they can secure a play-off place, or higher?

While being quietly optimistic, it would be Vale all over to fizzle out. But with an experienced manager and the likes of Stockley, Byers, Benning, Garrity, and Chislett, we could easily get 3rd place. But it’s a dog-eat-dog league and anything can happen.

How do you feel about the current management and coaching staff? Are there any changes you would like to see in the club’s strategy or approach?

I’m happy with Darren Moore, although his interviews are boring as hell. I’d like to see a more attacking approach to games because it’s League 2. If you attack, you will get goals. We seem to score and sit back, and the inevitable always happens.

How do you think Port Vale’s style of play compares to other teams in League Two? Are there any teams you particularly enjoy watching them play against?

I haven’t seen enough teams yet so far to comment on this one. Anyone who plays attacking football is always good to watch.

What are your thoughts on the upcoming match against Notts County? How do you think the game will go, and what do you predict the final score will be?

While Jodi Jones is out, there is always a chance. Backed by 2300 Valiants, the away end will be rocking. But typical Vale, backed by a tremendous following, normally don’t turn up. Notts County is definitely one of the stronger teams in this league, so it’ll be a close game. I’m sitting on the fence with this one and saying 2-2, with goals from Ben Garrity and Jayden Stockley.

Final comments from Chris

This will be a game for both teams which will test their promotion credentials, a good result for Notts would be a welcomed return to winning ways after the frustrating defeat against Gillingham. Notts will be hoping the 12th man and home advantage will benefit them the most, as they take to the Meadow Lane pitch. With the absence of Jodi Jones, it will be noteworthy to see how Kellan Gordon does in the position and if he can continue the fight. Port Vale are in good form themselves, and will prove themselves to be a very difficult outfit to face on home soil. They will be looking to make it four wins in five or three draws in five, hoping to defeat at all costs. I can't see many goals being in the game, perhaps only two, and I am hoping both goals are to Notts, yet it may end 1-1.

Pride of Nottingham has an exclusive interview with Kellan Gordon, where he shares his thoughts on the upcoming game, settling in at Notts County, and his ambitions for the club. Don't miss what the new signing has to say as he aims to make a big impact!

Join the conversation on Pride of Nottingham and share your thoughts ahead of the Port Vale match! Leave a comment and get involved in the match discussion with fellow fans.