The Football League have launched a search to find the EA Sports Fan of the Year with the winners to be announced at the Football League Awards dinner in March.
Do we have a Valiant in are midst that always goes that exta mile to get to awaygames, or gives up their time and effort for the good of our club?
You can send your nominations to awards@football-league.co.uk.
Thursday 24 December 2009
Monday 7 December 2009
The Football League
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This site has now set up a link with The Football League who are providing me wiht all sorts of different iformation regarding Port Vale and The Football League itself.
Today they have announced a poll to compile the greatest League Cup moments as the competito reaches it's 50th birthday.
Over recent seasons Port Vale haven't had much luck in the competition but this year got to the 3rd Round after wins Sheffield United and Sheffield Wednesday. While in 2006/07 they reached the 4th round eventually bowing out at White Hart Lane to Premier League opponents Tottenham Hotspur.
But fans may still remember so great cup moments and you can register your vote Here
Tuesday 1 December 2009
Lincoln
Vale travel to Lincoln tonight in the first game of an action packed December.
Geoff Horsefiled and Louis Dodds will be looking forward to a return to the club where they kick started their football careers.
While the Imps have former Vale midfielder Chris Herd who is enjoying another spell on loan from Aston Villa.
Midfielder Tommy Fraser serves the last game of his three match suspension. Defender Gareth Owen is out as he still recovers from a fractured cheekbone that has recquired surgery.
This will be the last game of Lewis Haldane's loan spell from Bristol Rovers but he may only have a few weeks to wait for a return to Vale Park should Mickey Adams choose to sign him when the transfer windown opens in January.
Geoff Horsefiled and Louis Dodds will be looking forward to a return to the club where they kick started their football careers.
While the Imps have former Vale midfielder Chris Herd who is enjoying another spell on loan from Aston Villa.
Midfielder Tommy Fraser serves the last game of his three match suspension. Defender Gareth Owen is out as he still recovers from a fractured cheekbone that has recquired surgery.
This will be the last game of Lewis Haldane's loan spell from Bristol Rovers but he may only have a few weeks to wait for a return to Vale Park should Mickey Adams choose to sign him when the transfer windown opens in January.
Monday 30 November 2009
Huddersfield
The Valiants bowed out of the FA Cup at the weekend at home to Huddersfield. A single strike from Nathan Clarke in the 13th minute proved ulucky for the Valiants. However it could have been a different story if Vale striker Marc Richards had composed himself a little more in front of an open goal.
Vale evenly matched a Huddersfield side litterd with talent and a league above Micky Adams' side but it wasn't quite enough to put them in the hat for round three.
Richards was brought off with ironic cheers from the Vale crowd and player/coach Geoff Horsefield brought some experiene to the striking force.
Vale evenly matched a Huddersfield side litterd with talent and a league above Micky Adams' side but it wasn't quite enough to put them in the hat for round three.
Richards was brought off with ironic cheers from the Vale crowd and player/coach Geoff Horsefield brought some experiene to the striking force.
Wednesday 25 November 2009
By Gully for that
Port Vale came from behind at home to Torquay last night to secure their 9th draw of the season.
Vale took the lead through a strike by Doug Loft, his first strike of the season after ten minutes but Torquay hit back with a stunning reply.
Defender Gareth Owen and midfielder Louis Dodds both left the field, for reasons that are yet unknown, tactical or injuries.
Scott Rendell gave the away side the lead in the 67th minute but it was super sub Rob Taylor who hit a spectacular ball that ensured the Valiants got a point from the game
It marked an early debut for on-loan striker Sean Rigg who only joined the Valiants early in the day but he will be cup tied for Saturday's FA Cup clash at home to Huddersfield.
The final whistle brought a smattering a jeers from the Vale Park crowd and it is looking to be a tough week for Adams and he admits he was disappointed with his side's performance Read here for more
Vale took the lead through a strike by Doug Loft, his first strike of the season after ten minutes but Torquay hit back with a stunning reply.
Defender Gareth Owen and midfielder Louis Dodds both left the field, for reasons that are yet unknown, tactical or injuries.
Scott Rendell gave the away side the lead in the 67th minute but it was super sub Rob Taylor who hit a spectacular ball that ensured the Valiants got a point from the game
It marked an early debut for on-loan striker Sean Rigg who only joined the Valiants early in the day but he will be cup tied for Saturday's FA Cup clash at home to Huddersfield.
The final whistle brought a smattering a jeers from the Vale Park crowd and it is looking to be a tough week for Adams and he admits he was disappointed with his side's performance Read here for more
Monday 23 November 2009
Football League Survey
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Have your say on what happens to The Football League. There annual survey has been released today. Click here to help make a difference
Cash Injection on hold
A potential cash injection for the club is set to take a little longer than expected Vale Chairman Bill Bratt revealed after the 0-0 draw at Barnet.
Some factors of the deal are set to be ironed out by a legal team over the next few weeks but Bratt couldn't put an exact time scale on the deal being completed.
However, this morning an article has appeared in the Gurdian newspaper suggesting that everything is not as it seems with the Essex based prooperty investment group.
Read more here
Harlequin joined the club as shirt sponsors in 2008/09 season and have continued that arrangement through to this season.
In the past they have put of freebies for the fans which have included free match day programmes but the latest gesture has been free coach travel to the Valiants last two cup games to Bradford and Stevenage respectively.
Saturday 21 November 2009
Barnet
A point away at Underhill was over-shawdowed in the last minute by the late sending off of Vale Captain Tommy Fraser.
Thursday 19 November 2009
Super Sam on Football League Podcast
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As we all follow Sam's progress after his departure from Vale Park I've been sent the info from his interview last week on the Football League Podcast.
Listen here
Monday 2 November 2009
Super Sam Stockley
As we all know we have heard today about Sam's decision to retire from the game due to injury.
A great servant to the club with his commintment and personality and will be missed on and off the field.
I've trawled my archives and found an interview I conducted with Sam from last Christmas. Enjoy!!! All the best Sam xxx
It’s that festive time of year again and cheeky club captain Sam Stockley plays Father Christmas and reveals what his fellow Port Vale team-mates may have found in their stockings and they might not like what they get.
Vale’s number one Joe Anyon: “Would like a nice single bottle of blue WKD for when he’s not playing as a little treat.”
You: “I’d like a nice gum shield.”
Forme non-league winger Rob Taylor: “Would like one of those nose things that help you breathe, because he struggles with his.”
Fans favourite Anthony Griffith: “would just like a fiver.”
Centre half John McCombe: “I think would like an all over body wax, so that for once in his life he wouldn’t feel like a very hairy animal.”
Youngster Luke Prosser: “would like a new jacket because the one he wears he has probably worn for two and a half years, everyday.”
Injury hit Shane Tudor: “Tudes would like a nice tub of Clearasil because every so often he gets a whopper of a spot.”
Midfield maestro Dave Howland: “Would like a nice frame picture of Ian Beale, his hero.
Top scorer Marc Richards: “Would like a pair of baggy jeans because the ones he wears are like Lycra.”
Striker Luke Rodgers, who is currently on-loan at Yeovil: “I think would like a hat because his head gets rather cold.”
Revitalised Paul Edwards: “Would like to once in a lifetime shoot with his right foot.”
Rookie goalkeeper Chris Martin: “Would like a supersize extra value McDonald’s meal.”
Sharp shooter Louis Dodds: “Would like three things. A new horse jacket, a new bit because the one he’s got keeps falling out of his mouth and a lovely salt stick because his has worn out.”
Forgotten striker Kyle Perry: “Would like a mirror that tells the truth because everyone that he looks in says he’s a 9.6 and really he’s a 4.”
Young striker and Luke Rodgers look-a-like Steve Thompson: “Would like a cap that fits because every one that he wears looks like a swimming cap.”
Flame haired forward Danny Glover: Would like brown hair just for one day.”
Young midfielder Simon Richman: “Would like a signed 2009 calendar of Stevie Gerrard, so he could look at him everyday.”
Northern Ireland international James Lawrie: “Would like some gel so he could keep down the quiff at the front of his head.”
Midfielder Ross Davidson: “Would like a car, because then he doesn’t have to travel and listen to Doddsy (Louis Dodds) everyday.”
Old head Dave Brammer: “Would like to be Sam Stockley.”
On-loan Plymouth defender Damien McCory: “Would like a voice box, that he could wind up and we could occasionally hear him.”
Loan ranger Lee Collins: “Would like a new candle for his mouth because the one he used at Halloween for his pumpkin head didn’t work.”
On-loan midfielder Scott Brown: “would like at new tattooist because the one he’s got of the Everton badge on his arm is horrific.
New comer Gareth Owen: “would like a week in re-hab.”
Former Stokie Neil Mackenzie: “would like a lovely, big book of crosswords because that’s all he does when he comes in.
(He was on Countdown Sam.)
So Stockley hangs up his red suit for the next victim to take the hot seat and bids you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
A great servant to the club with his commintment and personality and will be missed on and off the field.
I've trawled my archives and found an interview I conducted with Sam from last Christmas. Enjoy!!! All the best Sam xxx
It’s that festive time of year again and cheeky club captain Sam Stockley plays Father Christmas and reveals what his fellow Port Vale team-mates may have found in their stockings and they might not like what they get.
Vale’s number one Joe Anyon: “Would like a nice single bottle of blue WKD for when he’s not playing as a little treat.”
You: “I’d like a nice gum shield.”
Forme non-league winger Rob Taylor: “Would like one of those nose things that help you breathe, because he struggles with his.”
Fans favourite Anthony Griffith: “would just like a fiver.”
Centre half John McCombe: “I think would like an all over body wax, so that for once in his life he wouldn’t feel like a very hairy animal.”
Youngster Luke Prosser: “would like a new jacket because the one he wears he has probably worn for two and a half years, everyday.”
Injury hit Shane Tudor: “Tudes would like a nice tub of Clearasil because every so often he gets a whopper of a spot.”
Midfield maestro Dave Howland: “Would like a nice frame picture of Ian Beale, his hero.
Top scorer Marc Richards: “Would like a pair of baggy jeans because the ones he wears are like Lycra.”
Striker Luke Rodgers, who is currently on-loan at Yeovil: “I think would like a hat because his head gets rather cold.”
Revitalised Paul Edwards: “Would like to once in a lifetime shoot with his right foot.”
Rookie goalkeeper Chris Martin: “Would like a supersize extra value McDonald’s meal.”
Sharp shooter Louis Dodds: “Would like three things. A new horse jacket, a new bit because the one he’s got keeps falling out of his mouth and a lovely salt stick because his has worn out.”
Forgotten striker Kyle Perry: “Would like a mirror that tells the truth because everyone that he looks in says he’s a 9.6 and really he’s a 4.”
Young striker and Luke Rodgers look-a-like Steve Thompson: “Would like a cap that fits because every one that he wears looks like a swimming cap.”
Flame haired forward Danny Glover: Would like brown hair just for one day.”
Young midfielder Simon Richman: “Would like a signed 2009 calendar of Stevie Gerrard, so he could look at him everyday.”
Northern Ireland international James Lawrie: “Would like some gel so he could keep down the quiff at the front of his head.”
Midfielder Ross Davidson: “Would like a car, because then he doesn’t have to travel and listen to Doddsy (Louis Dodds) everyday.”
Old head Dave Brammer: “Would like to be Sam Stockley.”
On-loan Plymouth defender Damien McCory: “Would like a voice box, that he could wind up and we could occasionally hear him.”
Loan ranger Lee Collins: “Would like a new candle for his mouth because the one he used at Halloween for his pumpkin head didn’t work.”
On-loan midfielder Scott Brown: “would like at new tattooist because the one he’s got of the Everton badge on his arm is horrific.
New comer Gareth Owen: “would like a week in re-hab.”
Former Stokie Neil Mackenzie: “would like a lovely, big book of crosswords because that’s all he does when he comes in.
(He was on Countdown Sam.)
So Stockley hangs up his red suit for the next victim to take the hot seat and bids you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Monday 17 August 2009
The other side of the story.
The season is well under way for Port Vale but there is still a battle raging off the field.
Internet message boards are rife with alleged meetings with fans at the houses of club officials and various rumours over who has seen what documents related to the club.
While current and former employees argue over what investment opportunities have or haven’t materialised into something more permanent.
That former employee is Kevin Fitzgerald, who was sales manager at the club before moving to the same role at Stoke City but eventually moving on to pursues other business interests, selling property to footballers.
Through that avenue he came into contact with Harlequin Properties, who he introduced to the club and are now Port Vale’s shirt sponsors, and who one director described “the best sponsors the club has ever had.”
Since then rumours have flown around about more financial opportunities have been made available via Kevin Fitzgerald.
The two main deals that have been the centre of debate between the fans, the club and Kevin himself are Basement Jaax and Maplin.
Both deals were said to be non-existent following a statement on Port Vale’s official web-site. But now it’s time to hear the other side of the story.
Kevin said: “If I were just to deny what has been said nobody would believe me.”
However, in a statement Ronnie Wilson, manager of Vula Malinga who has featured on a number of Basement Jaax hits and is a renowned record producer and co-writer for former stars Eternal, Liberty X and Louise said: “I have known Kevin Fitzgerald since August 2008 in which we were introduced to each other through mutual associates the Selman Group.
“Discussions took place between myself and Kevin in regards to Basement Jaax sponsoring the back of Port Vale’s home shirts and shorts in which Kevin forwarded a proposal to me.”
Mock up photographs of a possible deal have appeared on one of Port Vale’s independent web-sites Portvaleonline to show what a shirt could look like bearing the Basement Jaax log, which Kevin claims was mocked up by the club so that Basement Jaax’s management team could get a feel of what a sponsorship deal could look like. But it was never a concrete deal. Ronnie adds:” Discussions took place between myself and Kevin in regards to Basement Jaax potentially playing a concert at Port Vale in June 2010. This is in Kevin’s hands to get a proposal together.”
However, Ronnie also is keen to say the following: “I must stress that no sponsorship deal or concert had been agreed due to the fact Basement Jaax were on a world tour. I could not speak to Andrew Monsi until they returned, by which time the club had spoken to him first.”
While Davy Hill, Business to Business team leader for Maplin Electronics said in an e-mail “Paul Bennett approached Maplin with a sponsorship proposal for Port Vale FC. Maplin decided not to proceed further with the proposal as the time is not right for the company to undertake this type of marketing. “
Kevin explains his relationship with Paul Bennett. He said: “I have known Paul Bennett for a couple of years via a sponsor at Port Vale but got to know him even better when his telecoms company became a major sponsor at my time with Stoke City.
“I have spoken to Paul about many opportunities that could possibly be introduced to Port Vale via Paul’s contacts with Maplin Electronics
being one of them, I must stress that at no point did I ever say that the Maplin Electronics deal was done which has been indicated on the Port Vale official website.”
Kevin is extremely happy to have some of his work recognised by the club also. He said: “I am also happy now that the club have now acknowledged through the Staffordshire Sentinel that they are in talks with my contacts, regeneration experts the Selman Group which will benefit the club hugely.”
While Kevin is also pleased to have his version of events heard. He added: “I am also happy now that following on from the official statement on the clubs website that my side of the story has now been heard and hopefully put the bed the two stories trying to slur my name.”
He added: “it’s also good to quash the suggestions that both organisations have not been approached to sponsor Port Vale or even heard of me.”
So both sides of the argument have now been presented. It’s time for the fans to make their minds up.
Internet message boards are rife with alleged meetings with fans at the houses of club officials and various rumours over who has seen what documents related to the club.
While current and former employees argue over what investment opportunities have or haven’t materialised into something more permanent.
That former employee is Kevin Fitzgerald, who was sales manager at the club before moving to the same role at Stoke City but eventually moving on to pursues other business interests, selling property to footballers.
Through that avenue he came into contact with Harlequin Properties, who he introduced to the club and are now Port Vale’s shirt sponsors, and who one director described “the best sponsors the club has ever had.”
Since then rumours have flown around about more financial opportunities have been made available via Kevin Fitzgerald.
The two main deals that have been the centre of debate between the fans, the club and Kevin himself are Basement Jaax and Maplin.
Both deals were said to be non-existent following a statement on Port Vale’s official web-site. But now it’s time to hear the other side of the story.
Kevin said: “If I were just to deny what has been said nobody would believe me.”
However, in a statement Ronnie Wilson, manager of Vula Malinga who has featured on a number of Basement Jaax hits and is a renowned record producer and co-writer for former stars Eternal, Liberty X and Louise said: “I have known Kevin Fitzgerald since August 2008 in which we were introduced to each other through mutual associates the Selman Group.
“Discussions took place between myself and Kevin in regards to Basement Jaax sponsoring the back of Port Vale’s home shirts and shorts in which Kevin forwarded a proposal to me.”
Mock up photographs of a possible deal have appeared on one of Port Vale’s independent web-sites Portvaleonline to show what a shirt could look like bearing the Basement Jaax log, which Kevin claims was mocked up by the club so that Basement Jaax’s management team could get a feel of what a sponsorship deal could look like. But it was never a concrete deal. Ronnie adds:” Discussions took place between myself and Kevin in regards to Basement Jaax potentially playing a concert at Port Vale in June 2010. This is in Kevin’s hands to get a proposal together.”
However, Ronnie also is keen to say the following: “I must stress that no sponsorship deal or concert had been agreed due to the fact Basement Jaax were on a world tour. I could not speak to Andrew Monsi until they returned, by which time the club had spoken to him first.”
While Davy Hill, Business to Business team leader for Maplin Electronics said in an e-mail “Paul Bennett approached Maplin with a sponsorship proposal for Port Vale FC. Maplin decided not to proceed further with the proposal as the time is not right for the company to undertake this type of marketing. “
Kevin explains his relationship with Paul Bennett. He said: “I have known Paul Bennett for a couple of years via a sponsor at Port Vale but got to know him even better when his telecoms company became a major sponsor at my time with Stoke City.
“I have spoken to Paul about many opportunities that could possibly be introduced to Port Vale via Paul’s contacts with Maplin Electronics
being one of them, I must stress that at no point did I ever say that the Maplin Electronics deal was done which has been indicated on the Port Vale official website.”
Kevin is extremely happy to have some of his work recognised by the club also. He said: “I am also happy now that the club have now acknowledged through the Staffordshire Sentinel that they are in talks with my contacts, regeneration experts the Selman Group which will benefit the club hugely.”
While Kevin is also pleased to have his version of events heard. He added: “I am also happy now that following on from the official statement on the clubs website that my side of the story has now been heard and hopefully put the bed the two stories trying to slur my name.”
He added: “it’s also good to quash the suggestions that both organisations have not been approached to sponsor Port Vale or even heard of me.”
So both sides of the argument have now been presented. It’s time for the fans to make their minds up.
Wednesday 15 April 2009
Simply the Best
That's what Vale's youth team are at the moment having lifted the Midland Youth Cup last night for the second year running.
The Valiants defended their title with a 3-1 win over Rushden and Diamonds in front of a crowd of 656.
Goalkeeper Daniel Lloyd Weston pulled off a string of fine saves that kept Mark Grew's side in the game and Rushden can consider themselves extremely unlucky to be going home with runners up medals.
But Vale's international quality shone through with the likes of James Lawrie in the side who has a number of Northen Ireland under 21 caps under his belt and looks to have a promising future ahead of him.
However, the most disappointing news is that this cup winning side could well be dismantled as early as next week as the season draws to a close and contracts are handed out of hearts and dreams broken for another year.
But for now the group of youngsters can wallow in the success of being the best youth side in the Midlands.
The Valiants defended their title with a 3-1 win over Rushden and Diamonds in front of a crowd of 656.
Goalkeeper Daniel Lloyd Weston pulled off a string of fine saves that kept Mark Grew's side in the game and Rushden can consider themselves extremely unlucky to be going home with runners up medals.
But Vale's international quality shone through with the likes of James Lawrie in the side who has a number of Northen Ireland under 21 caps under his belt and looks to have a promising future ahead of him.
However, the most disappointing news is that this cup winning side could well be dismantled as early as next week as the season draws to a close and contracts are handed out of hearts and dreams broken for another year.
But for now the group of youngsters can wallow in the success of being the best youth side in the Midlands.
Sunday 29 March 2009
Anyon Laid off
Vale suffered another defeat away at Chesterfield this weekend. Two goals from Jack Lester sealed their victory, while Vale pulled a goal back from on-loan Man City youngster Paul Marshall.
The talking point of the game however, will be the injury to Vale goalkeeper Joe Anyon who was stretchered from the field clasping a oxygen mask.
The 21 year-old has been thrust into the limelight since an injury to former keeper Mark Goodlad meant he had to retire.
Fans will be hoping the same thing doesn't happen to Joe as he looks to have a promising career ahead of him.
The talking point of the game however, will be the injury to Vale goalkeeper Joe Anyon who was stretchered from the field clasping a oxygen mask.
The 21 year-old has been thrust into the limelight since an injury to former keeper Mark Goodlad meant he had to retire.
Fans will be hoping the same thing doesn't happen to Joe as he looks to have a promising career ahead of him.
Saturday 28 March 2009
Money, Money, Money
While today's game is under when I thought I'd take this oppurtuinity to talk about one of the major events to come out of Vale Park this week.
There has been lots of speculation surrounding investors, three of which are said to be interested in the club and has prompted this article from the local paper.
With dwindling crowds already and the season isn't yet over, the club need to provide some sort of incentive to attract the crowds backnext season as I'm sure this is one both the fans and club will want to forget in a hurry.
If season ticket prices don't match that of the fans then don't be surprised if more protests are organised and a scalding interview is released by some big shot at the club.
Glad all over
There has been lots of speculation surrounding investors, three of which are said to be interested in the club and has prompted this article from the local paper.
With dwindling crowds already and the season isn't yet over, the club need to provide some sort of incentive to attract the crowds backnext season as I'm sure this is one both the fans and club will want to forget in a hurry.
If season ticket prices don't match that of the fans then don't be surprised if more protests are organised and a scalding interview is released by some big shot at the club.
Glad all over
Friday 27 March 2009
Well who'd have thought
We'd have managed a win over Bradford last week. That was a shock one I can tell you, wish I'd made the effort to go now but thought against it after the Accrington game.
Kevin Gall has gone back to Carlisle not sure why to be quite honest, maybe somebody can fill me in. But there is talk of having a former old boy back in Paul Harsley, maybe we can have a word when we go to play Chesterfield on Saturday.
What is it about all these former players? We know Peter Jackson likes getting the old boys in, but it doesn't work Peter, just look at the situation we are in now with old players as managers, hardly up for promotion are we.
I seem to have set the trend with my exclusive the fans sites are now rife with rumours and people meeting up with more privileged ones for all the goss. Form a queue I was first.
Chesterfield this weekend, started well but have fallen by the wayside just lately. Similar to us, but we didn't have the successful start to be honest.
Kevin Gall has gone back to Carlisle not sure why to be quite honest, maybe somebody can fill me in. But there is talk of having a former old boy back in Paul Harsley, maybe we can have a word when we go to play Chesterfield on Saturday.
What is it about all these former players? We know Peter Jackson likes getting the old boys in, but it doesn't work Peter, just look at the situation we are in now with old players as managers, hardly up for promotion are we.
I seem to have set the trend with my exclusive the fans sites are now rife with rumours and people meeting up with more privileged ones for all the goss. Form a queue I was first.
Chesterfield this weekend, started well but have fallen by the wayside just lately. Similar to us, but we didn't have the successful start to be honest.
Thursday 19 March 2009
Normal service has been resumed
Just as we were all looking slightly hopeful. Rob Taylor's back in the side, we have a good win where we score than one or two gaols adn then we go and stuff it all up at Accrington. Must have been that sloping pitch eh?
Thankfully I didn't make the trip this time, learnt the lessons when we were thinking about going and it got called off at 7 due to a water-logged pitch.
It was described as one of the worst performances in 30 years. There's been a few of them just lately, we could make a DVD and get the club shop to sell it. It'll be a collectors item.
We need points on the board as quick as possible over the next few weeks, we can't keep relyig on Chester and Grimsby to stuff it all up. We need pull our own fingers out.
Glad all over
Thankfully I didn't make the trip this time, learnt the lessons when we were thinking about going and it got called off at 7 due to a water-logged pitch.
It was described as one of the worst performances in 30 years. There's been a few of them just lately, we could make a DVD and get the club shop to sell it. It'll be a collectors item.
We need points on the board as quick as possible over the next few weeks, we can't keep relyig on Chester and Grimsby to stuff it all up. We need pull our own fingers out.
Glad all over
Tuesday 17 March 2009
Back again
Well there have been a few developements on here over the last week.
I couldn't have predicted the response I had after publishing the first two parts of an interview with former employee Steve Joesbury, if you can call him an employee, they weren't paying him for a lot of the time.
Anyway, I've been relieved of my official duties at the club, because apparently they can't have people working for them writing that sort of thing.
Well 1. I don't work for them 2.I never got paid for anything I did it was all voluntary 3. Should they have people at the club sending me messages saying i'm a nasty and destructive person. No I think not.
But have had a number of people offering me other projects for which I am truly thankful - just to keep my writing ticking over at this crucial time.
Amazingly we managed to pick up a win over Darlington on Saturday, don't ask me how. I actually wanted us to lose so we could have a protest with me at the fore front after the last week, which seems to have felt like a year.
See what happens when you put Rob Taylor in, we win convincingly, he scores, gets Man of the Match what more could Deano want?
Rob Taylor player of the year everybody
Glad all over
I couldn't have predicted the response I had after publishing the first two parts of an interview with former employee Steve Joesbury, if you can call him an employee, they weren't paying him for a lot of the time.
Anyway, I've been relieved of my official duties at the club, because apparently they can't have people working for them writing that sort of thing.
Well 1. I don't work for them 2.I never got paid for anything I did it was all voluntary 3. Should they have people at the club sending me messages saying i'm a nasty and destructive person. No I think not.
But have had a number of people offering me other projects for which I am truly thankful - just to keep my writing ticking over at this crucial time.
Amazingly we managed to pick up a win over Darlington on Saturday, don't ask me how. I actually wanted us to lose so we could have a protest with me at the fore front after the last week, which seems to have felt like a year.
See what happens when you put Rob Taylor in, we win convincingly, he scores, gets Man of the Match what more could Deano want?
Rob Taylor player of the year everybody
Glad all over
Monday 9 March 2009
Exclusive - Part 2
In the latest extract, of the diary of a football club consultant, Steve Joesbury reveals about Lee Sinnott’s first few days in charge and what life was like behind the scenes
He said: "You can’t blame Lee. He wanted his chance. He didn’t think they would stab him in the back. I don’t mind using the word stab, because it got to the point where it was horrible. It really was horrible."
"Lee is an honest guy and Lee is a very good person at reading people. The only reason I stayed, I would have gone, but that would have isolated Lee. It wasn’t for the money that’s for sure, because it was costing me money initially working for the club, which was stupid."
"Lee was told by a lot of people, a lot of respected managers to watch his back. He was also told by a respected manager who is also a friend of Glover’s who told me to tell Lee to watch his back."
"Lee wanted to find out for himself. There was a meeting; Lee was asked if everything was ok. Lee was in the position to give Glover the opportunity. The players had a great deal of respect for Andy Porter and his coaching methods but Lee was reminded under no uncertain terms that on Dean Glover’s contract it said assistant manager.
We wanted Williams away from the coaching area. We found out that he was telling Jackson everything."
"The discipline at that football club when we got there was awful. I never forgot, I was in the coaches’ room. The phone rings, somebody answers the phone and it’s the chairman, someone turns round and says “Oh hello Bratty”
Now I’ve worked under Doug Ellis and Jeff Bonsar. You don’t treat Chairmen like that; you don’t speak to Chairmen like that. I don’t care who you are its Mr Chairman or its Bill. "
"We had apprentices sitting down in the coaching room. We had players on web-sites looking at stuff. It was an open house. We stopped all that. We moved the television into Lee’s room. We took everything so that it couldn’t get outside. "
If anything happened at that football club it was on the internet straight away, there was stuff being leaked everywhere. We know who was doing it and we know who some of the people are on web-sites.
"A former player said that under Lee Sinnott that if training was compared to being at school Sinnott was like a head teacher, while Dean Glover was like a student teacher."
Stay tuned for more on players.........
He said: "You can’t blame Lee. He wanted his chance. He didn’t think they would stab him in the back. I don’t mind using the word stab, because it got to the point where it was horrible. It really was horrible."
"Lee is an honest guy and Lee is a very good person at reading people. The only reason I stayed, I would have gone, but that would have isolated Lee. It wasn’t for the money that’s for sure, because it was costing me money initially working for the club, which was stupid."
"Lee was told by a lot of people, a lot of respected managers to watch his back. He was also told by a respected manager who is also a friend of Glover’s who told me to tell Lee to watch his back."
"Lee wanted to find out for himself. There was a meeting; Lee was asked if everything was ok. Lee was in the position to give Glover the opportunity. The players had a great deal of respect for Andy Porter and his coaching methods but Lee was reminded under no uncertain terms that on Dean Glover’s contract it said assistant manager.
We wanted Williams away from the coaching area. We found out that he was telling Jackson everything."
"The discipline at that football club when we got there was awful. I never forgot, I was in the coaches’ room. The phone rings, somebody answers the phone and it’s the chairman, someone turns round and says “Oh hello Bratty”
Now I’ve worked under Doug Ellis and Jeff Bonsar. You don’t treat Chairmen like that; you don’t speak to Chairmen like that. I don’t care who you are its Mr Chairman or its Bill. "
"We had apprentices sitting down in the coaching room. We had players on web-sites looking at stuff. It was an open house. We stopped all that. We moved the television into Lee’s room. We took everything so that it couldn’t get outside. "
If anything happened at that football club it was on the internet straight away, there was stuff being leaked everywhere. We know who was doing it and we know who some of the people are on web-sites.
"A former player said that under Lee Sinnott that if training was compared to being at school Sinnott was like a head teacher, while Dean Glover was like a student teacher."
Stay tuned for more on players.........
Sunday 8 March 2009
Exclusive
In the first of a series of extracts. Former Vale consultant Steve Joesbury opens up in a frank and honest interview of what really went on behind the scenes during his time at Vale Park.
Lee Sinnott’s trusted advisor speaks out about events following their arrival in Burslem and the factors that let to Sinnott’s demise.
Steve’s revelations will shock fans as they finally learn the truth.
Steve’s first experience of what life at the club was going to be like came at a meeting on football matters. Steve takes up the story
“ At that meeting Peter Jackson didn’t want me there. At no time did Peter Jackson ever acknowledge me. All the time I was at Port Vale Football Club, he shut me out, he never did anything. So I didn’t exist as far as Peter Jackson was concerned.
Lee insisted the meeting wouldn’t go ahead unless I sat in on it. “
“After we had the meeting, which were supposed to be every two weeks, Jackson said any players that were signed, we hadn’t signed any at this stage, would first have to be sanctioned by Williams and Glover.
His words were “Any players that are signed have got to go through these guys first.”
Lee never said a word. I never said a word. It came completely out of the blue to me and Lee, Lee said jut go with it. We’ll go another one, after that we didn’t’ have another one because Lee then put him in his place.
He said to Jackson I’m the manager I’ll sign the players. But you could see straight away that Jackson wanted Williams and Glover to virtually over see our players.
So that was where we started, that was the beginning. “
“Lee was asked what Steve Joesbury would bring to the table. I said what I want to do is make sure that Port Vale know the West Midlands.
Jackson turned round and said at the meeting “It’s not our patch. That’s not our patch.”
Look and think about it Man United, Man City, Blackburn, Liverpool that’s the area. They don’t want to know Villa, Birmingham, and Wolves. Glover was a Villa player, but they weren’t interested. It wasn’t their patch, they’d never gone there.
My idea was to widen the area up, and then you get wider. “
“I came out and said to Lee what are we doing here, because we are knocking our head against a brick wall.
Another manager was interviewed at the same time as Lee and he wanted a clear out of everybody. The two managers interviewed wanted a clear out. The only one who would work with the existing staff was Lee.”
Keep your eyes peeled for Part Two
Interview copyright Lauren Watson 2009. No parts of this interview can be used or copied without owners permission.
Lee Sinnott’s trusted advisor speaks out about events following their arrival in Burslem and the factors that let to Sinnott’s demise.
Steve’s revelations will shock fans as they finally learn the truth.
Steve’s first experience of what life at the club was going to be like came at a meeting on football matters. Steve takes up the story
“ At that meeting Peter Jackson didn’t want me there. At no time did Peter Jackson ever acknowledge me. All the time I was at Port Vale Football Club, he shut me out, he never did anything. So I didn’t exist as far as Peter Jackson was concerned.
Lee insisted the meeting wouldn’t go ahead unless I sat in on it. “
“After we had the meeting, which were supposed to be every two weeks, Jackson said any players that were signed, we hadn’t signed any at this stage, would first have to be sanctioned by Williams and Glover.
His words were “Any players that are signed have got to go through these guys first.”
Lee never said a word. I never said a word. It came completely out of the blue to me and Lee, Lee said jut go with it. We’ll go another one, after that we didn’t’ have another one because Lee then put him in his place.
He said to Jackson I’m the manager I’ll sign the players. But you could see straight away that Jackson wanted Williams and Glover to virtually over see our players.
So that was where we started, that was the beginning. “
“Lee was asked what Steve Joesbury would bring to the table. I said what I want to do is make sure that Port Vale know the West Midlands.
Jackson turned round and said at the meeting “It’s not our patch. That’s not our patch.”
Look and think about it Man United, Man City, Blackburn, Liverpool that’s the area. They don’t want to know Villa, Birmingham, and Wolves. Glover was a Villa player, but they weren’t interested. It wasn’t their patch, they’d never gone there.
My idea was to widen the area up, and then you get wider. “
“I came out and said to Lee what are we doing here, because we are knocking our head against a brick wall.
Another manager was interviewed at the same time as Lee and he wanted a clear out of everybody. The two managers interviewed wanted a clear out. The only one who would work with the existing staff was Lee.”
Keep your eyes peeled for Part Two
Interview copyright Lauren Watson 2009. No parts of this interview can be used or copied without owners permission.
Friday 6 March 2009
Crucial game
This weekend's game against Bournemouth, could be our test of the season.
They've just sneaked out of the bottom two in League Two, and another team that had a points deduction slammed on it at the start of the season due to financial problems. How we've staved them off for so long is beyond me.
Tuesday's postponement at Accrington due to the bloody weather, that's the five time this season, will probably leave us flagging a bit, come on we need an excuse before the whistle even goes.
It's a must win game if we don't want to be dragged into a relegation dog fight once again. To be honest i don't fancy conference football on a wet Tuesday night.
Talks of a protest have been put to bed until Tuesday's home game against Dagenham, lose on Saturday and the whole ground might be outside the min entrance calling for somebody's head.
Marc Richards needs to get to the form he had before Christmas or risk a repeat of being booed off last weekend, for doing, quite frankly sweet fa.
John McCombe found the net last week, and earning my other half a nice £10 return to boos the holiday fund. At the this rate we certainly won't be saving for season tickets ready for summer.
Glad All Over, for now.
They've just sneaked out of the bottom two in League Two, and another team that had a points deduction slammed on it at the start of the season due to financial problems. How we've staved them off for so long is beyond me.
Tuesday's postponement at Accrington due to the bloody weather, that's the five time this season, will probably leave us flagging a bit, come on we need an excuse before the whistle even goes.
It's a must win game if we don't want to be dragged into a relegation dog fight once again. To be honest i don't fancy conference football on a wet Tuesday night.
Talks of a protest have been put to bed until Tuesday's home game against Dagenham, lose on Saturday and the whole ground might be outside the min entrance calling for somebody's head.
Marc Richards needs to get to the form he had before Christmas or risk a repeat of being booed off last weekend, for doing, quite frankly sweet fa.
John McCombe found the net last week, and earning my other half a nice £10 return to boos the holiday fund. At the this rate we certainly won't be saving for season tickets ready for summer.
Glad All Over, for now.
Wednesday 4 March 2009
Rained off
Rather glad I didn't make the short trip to Accrington last night. It would have been somewhat of a wasted trip as the game was called off at 7 due to a water logged pitch.
I would have been even less hapier had I had to fork out £13 for my ticket for stanidng on an open terrace being battered by the rain. While it was only £4 for home fans, and they had a nice wooden seat to sit on.
Now I thought they weren't allowed to do that and had to apply the same offers to home fans, obviously I was very wrong.!!!!
Unahppy Vale fan.
I would have been even less hapier had I had to fork out £13 for my ticket for stanidng on an open terrace being battered by the rain. While it was only £4 for home fans, and they had a nice wooden seat to sit on.
Now I thought they weren't allowed to do that and had to apply the same offers to home fans, obviously I was very wrong.!!!!
Unahppy Vale fan.
Tuesday 3 March 2009
Who are they? Exactly!!!
We've all seen the famous milk advert.
Well Accrington Stanley is where Vale are travelling tonight in another League Two clash.
I can't see it going to well in all honesty. They are two places and four points behind us. We don't favour little teams and the manager and players are moaning that Saturday's protest has affected them. Oh and they haven't won at home for a bit which means they are a shoe in for a result against us.
How? You were rubbish before we had a protest, you were rubbish in the Luton game why was it our fault? Who pays your wages??? Let me guess - me.
I'm on a bit of a rant today, must be a bit more of my hooligan element coming out.
Let's hope the players have drunk gallons of the white stuff before the game, might make them a bit stronger.
Glad all over
Well Accrington Stanley is where Vale are travelling tonight in another League Two clash.
I can't see it going to well in all honesty. They are two places and four points behind us. We don't favour little teams and the manager and players are moaning that Saturday's protest has affected them. Oh and they haven't won at home for a bit which means they are a shoe in for a result against us.
How? You were rubbish before we had a protest, you were rubbish in the Luton game why was it our fault? Who pays your wages??? Let me guess - me.
I'm on a bit of a rant today, must be a bit more of my hooligan element coming out.
Let's hope the players have drunk gallons of the white stuff before the game, might make them a bit stronger.
Glad all over
Monday 2 March 2009
Protest success
I think I'm turning into a footbll hooligan.
I was at the fore-front of both protests before and after the game. So much so my grandad spotted me in the local paper!!!
I wasn't calling for the manager's head, that would be unprofessional as he's been a close friend and source in the past, but for a change in the board room.
A 3-1 defeat at home to Luton, a team that hadn't won away from home since October as well as being bottom of the table having points deducted due to financial irregularities was always going to swell the crowd after the game
It took some huge balls for Glover to come and face the fans on his own as he did, especially when he was shot down trying to answer questions.
So where do we go from here..........................
Friday 27 February 2009
Thursday 26 February 2009
Typical Vale
Just as tempers are running high, the boys in black and white go and pull it out of the bag with a 2-0 win.
Going off radio commentary, we never looked like scoring until late in the second half until a howler from Macc keeper Jonny Brain allowed Adnam Ahmed in.
Vale fans should know all about Brain, we had him for two years and I'll never forget his Superman impression at Blackpool where he got lobbed from the half way line.
Glover would be best sticking with the same side on Saturday if he is to keep talks of protests away from the door. His cheeky no comment in his post-match interview said it all last night.
I'd like to congratualte Joe Anyon for getting in with the fans once again when Louis Dodds scored Vale's second, anybody who says Joe doesn't care is quite frankly off their rocker.
Gareth Owen missed the game with a cyst on the spine and I'm so glad I wasn't having my tea when he described it, it was rather unsavoury, no wonder it didn't make it on air until after the watershed.
However, one swallow doesn't make a summer.
Glad all over
Going off radio commentary, we never looked like scoring until late in the second half until a howler from Macc keeper Jonny Brain allowed Adnam Ahmed in.
Vale fans should know all about Brain, we had him for two years and I'll never forget his Superman impression at Blackpool where he got lobbed from the half way line.
Glover would be best sticking with the same side on Saturday if he is to keep talks of protests away from the door. His cheeky no comment in his post-match interview said it all last night.
I'd like to congratualte Joe Anyon for getting in with the fans once again when Louis Dodds scored Vale's second, anybody who says Joe doesn't care is quite frankly off their rocker.
Gareth Owen missed the game with a cyst on the spine and I'm so glad I wasn't having my tea when he described it, it was rather unsavoury, no wonder it didn't make it on air until after the watershed.
However, one swallow doesn't make a summer.
Glad all over
Wednesday 25 February 2009
Macc Attack
Well, Vale travel to Macclesfield tonight for the third time this season. It had better be third time lucky too.
We've been on the receiving end of a drumming twice this season. A 4-1 defeat at home and a 3-1 defeat in the FA Cup, I'm trying to get forget about that one, although it was made all the easier in the comfort of an executive box.
The most famous incident to come out of the first game would be winger Shane Tudor's analysis of the Silkmen, describing them as a s**t club. You only said what we were all thinking Shane.
Vale need to be on top form tonight, with tempers running high with frustration on the terraces towards Dean Glover and the board a defeat tonight would mean that Saturday's protests could start with some venom.
For the more offical view of my match preview Click here
We've been on the receiving end of a drumming twice this season. A 4-1 defeat at home and a 3-1 defeat in the FA Cup, I'm trying to get forget about that one, although it was made all the easier in the comfort of an executive box.
The most famous incident to come out of the first game would be winger Shane Tudor's analysis of the Silkmen, describing them as a s**t club. You only said what we were all thinking Shane.
Vale need to be on top form tonight, with tempers running high with frustration on the terraces towards Dean Glover and the board a defeat tonight would mean that Saturday's protests could start with some venom.
For the more offical view of my match preview Click here
Tuesday 24 February 2009
I'm distraught at news that Kyle Perry has been told he has no future at the club. So much so it's taken me two days to write about it.
ttp://www.thisisstaffordshire.co.uk/portvale/Port-Vale-Perry-s-release-strictly-business-says-Vale-boss/article-721960-detail/article.html
The towering centre half joined us from Chasetown who unfortunately knocked us out of the FA Cup. The less said about that the better.
I was at the club the day he signed alongside fellow Chase defender Chris Slater, who left the club in similar circumstances a few months ago. Leaving my other half £45 out of pocket after he forked out to have the lad's name on the back of his home shirt.
I admired his drive for pro football and his down to earth persona, something lacking in football today. He even took a pay cut, giving up his job as a graphic designer - something which he may go back to unless someone sees the potential and snaps him up come May.
He came to life in the 3-3 draw against Leeds last season, crossing a ball in the dying seconds to see Vale secure a point from a game that looked dead and buired come half time.
That elusive goal still awaits him and it's still causing arguments weeks later. Perry and young midfielder Simon Richman are still arguing over who had the decisive touch, as much as I love ya Kyle, I had money on Richman.
The butt of some jokes in the dressing room meant he turned up for one of my interviews late having had to perform an emergency operation on his shoe laces after the club's prankster had cut them.
That anecdote clinched a good mark for my Sports Features module and the ultimate praise came from Kyle's mum.
That's all the approval I need.
Friday 20 February 2009
We want Glover out
Well I don't. Not yet anyway, but it seems that a majority of Vale fans do.
A 1-0 defeat at home to Lincoln is not exactly the best way to spend a Firday evening, but it also means I don't have to put up with the noisy neighbours either.
A rather scrambled goal effort was all it took for the Imps to grab three points. However they did have an effort disallowed. I still haven't worked out why.
Glover's subsititions left much to be desired. Taking off our only real attacking player of the evening in Kyle Perry and replacing him with centre half John McCombe. It nearly became an isnpired substitution when he hit the bar with minutes to spare.
But such is life at Vale Park just lately.
Rousing chants of "We want Glover out", "You don't know what you're doing" and "Sack the board" can't have gone unnoticed by the powers that be in Burslem - but you never quite know what that lot in charge.
Luton at home next weekend offers little comfort. They financial plight and points deduction is the story of League Two and Vale will need to up their game ten fold if they are to escape from the worst six teams in English Football tag they hold at present.
Glad all over, well maybe not tonight
A 1-0 defeat at home to Lincoln is not exactly the best way to spend a Firday evening, but it also means I don't have to put up with the noisy neighbours either.
A rather scrambled goal effort was all it took for the Imps to grab three points. However they did have an effort disallowed. I still haven't worked out why.
Glover's subsititions left much to be desired. Taking off our only real attacking player of the evening in Kyle Perry and replacing him with centre half John McCombe. It nearly became an isnpired substitution when he hit the bar with minutes to spare.
But such is life at Vale Park just lately.
Rousing chants of "We want Glover out", "You don't know what you're doing" and "Sack the board" can't have gone unnoticed by the powers that be in Burslem - but you never quite know what that lot in charge.
Luton at home next weekend offers little comfort. They financial plight and points deduction is the story of League Two and Vale will need to up their game ten fold if they are to escape from the worst six teams in English Football tag they hold at present.
Glad all over, well maybe not tonight
Impish Behaviour
Vale take on Lincoln at home tonight and i'm hoping for result as are 4,000 other fans having not played at home since the end of January, thanks to all to the snowy weather.
Valetine's Day ended in defeat but it was all forgotten because Robbie Williams was at the game. You would have thought he would have been back on Monday morning with a big cheque but no such luck.
I reckon Louis Dodds should be in with a chance of finding the net tonight having scored against Lincoln before so I'll be putting a few quid on that to help boost the holiday fund.
Vale boss Dean Glover needs to include winger Rob Taylor, who is extremely knarked and the prospect of being sent out on loan after only joining us in the Summer. I don't really blame him to be honest. He could have gone out and found a proper job with that university degree of his.
Plus he's very easy on the eye, but that has absolutely nothing to do with it of course. I wouldn't mind an interview with him, but he looks on the quiet side.
As much as I'm hoping for a win I've got that feeling that we're on the end of a 3-0 dfeat tonight I'm afraid.
As usual a more official version of my preview is on the club's official site.
Click here
Valetine's Day ended in defeat but it was all forgotten because Robbie Williams was at the game. You would have thought he would have been back on Monday morning with a big cheque but no such luck.
I reckon Louis Dodds should be in with a chance of finding the net tonight having scored against Lincoln before so I'll be putting a few quid on that to help boost the holiday fund.
Vale boss Dean Glover needs to include winger Rob Taylor, who is extremely knarked and the prospect of being sent out on loan after only joining us in the Summer. I don't really blame him to be honest. He could have gone out and found a proper job with that university degree of his.
Plus he's very easy on the eye, but that has absolutely nothing to do with it of course. I wouldn't mind an interview with him, but he looks on the quiet side.
As much as I'm hoping for a win I've got that feeling that we're on the end of a 3-0 dfeat tonight I'm afraid.
As usual a more official version of my preview is on the club's official site.
Click here
Thursday 19 February 2009
Hello........
Before I wade straight in with all my posts. I thought it might be best to introduce myself.
Basically, my name is Lauren and as the title of my blog suggests I'm a huge Port Vale fan. Strange choice of team I know, you have to blame the Dad for that one.
That's pretty much it.
If I'm honest, I wouldn't be creating this blog if it wasn't for my uni course, as I'm pretty computer iliterate. As long as I can turn it on, off and get on the internet then I'm not too fussed about anything else.
However, I'm hoping it can be a place to come for the serious and lighter side of Port Vale for both men and women who follow all things Black and White and of course it wouldn't be Vale if there weren't a a few grey areas in between.
Follow me for maybe some exlcusives before the season is out!!! If that's no an incentive for you to come back from time to time I don't know what it.
Glad all over.
Basically, my name is Lauren and as the title of my blog suggests I'm a huge Port Vale fan. Strange choice of team I know, you have to blame the Dad for that one.
That's pretty much it.
If I'm honest, I wouldn't be creating this blog if it wasn't for my uni course, as I'm pretty computer iliterate. As long as I can turn it on, off and get on the internet then I'm not too fussed about anything else.
However, I'm hoping it can be a place to come for the serious and lighter side of Port Vale for both men and women who follow all things Black and White and of course it wouldn't be Vale if there weren't a a few grey areas in between.
Follow me for maybe some exlcusives before the season is out!!! If that's no an incentive for you to come back from time to time I don't know what it.
Glad all over.
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