Injury-hit DCFC lose out to Port Vale

Port Vale 6 DCFC 2

Andy Holliday was without 6 of his centre backs for the game at Port Vale but his side put in a battling performance in windy conditions but failed again to take chances that came their way.

The freak wind actually assisted in Port Vale going 2-0 up from 2 corners in quick succession. Left footed corners were put in the right area and the wind did the rest as both corner were blown into the goal without a touch from any player.

Things went from bad to worse for DCFC as Daniel Watling, returning to the side after a month out got caught out and felled the Port Vale striker for a penalty which was coolly converted for 3-0.

DCFC did have chances in the 1st half, Holliday saw a free kick fly just wide of the far post and Andrew Evans went through 1 on 1 but his tocuh evaded him completely and the 'keeper gathered.

In the 2nd half Dolan continued to work hard for DCFC and his persistence nearly paid off as he robbed the centre back and advanced on goal, he beat the 'keeper but could not beat the final defender who cleared off the line.

Port Vale then extended their lead against the run of play as the referee awared a further penalty for a handball offence in the area against David Round.

Dolan did finally get his reward for his hard work slotting home after being put through by James O'Neill.

Dolan then scored his 2nd of the game from the penalty spot for another handball offence in the area.

Dolan had the chance to grab a swift hat-trick however after beating the 'keeper, he was again thwarted on the line by a Port Vale defender.

Port Vale then came back into the game and grabbed 2 goals in quick succession, one followed a shot from distance which was spilled by 'keeper gardner and followed uo by the Port Vale striker and the 6th goal finally killed the game.

FT Port Vale 6 DCFC 2.

Team 4-5-1

Gardner

Cartwright R
Vickers
Round
Watling (Mace 45)

Evans
Cartwright J
Hoilliday
Rae
Salmon (O'Neill 45)

Dolan