Port Vale manager Darren Moore has called for more “impetus” from his side as they prepare for a crucial local derby against Walsall at Vale Park tomorrow.
The Valiants have recently seen their lead at the top of the table narrow after back-to-back draws, and Moore is determined to see his team take the initiative when they face the Saddlers.
Port Vale Need to Seize the Initiative
Port Vale’s recent 1-1 draw with Cheltenham Town, courtesy of a late equaliser from Ronan Curtis, allowed them to maintain a slender one-point lead over Walsall. However, Moore admitted that the team had not shown enough aggression in recent matches and needs to do more to assert control over games.
“If you want to be successful in games like tonight (against Cheltenham), you have to go and get the initiative and go and take the game. You can’t sit back and wait, even though we had a lot of possession and a lot of control of the game in large parts.” – Darren Moore.
Moore stressed that his players must stop hoping for goals to materialise and instead take responsibility for making them happen. Despite dominating possession and entering threatening positions, Port Vale failed to capitalize, something Moore wants to address moving forward.
“We have to have more impetus and demand more from each other,” Moore added, urging his players to be more proactive in future encounters.
As the top-of-the-table clash with Walsall looms, the manager is keen for Port Vale to show their intent and push for victory.
Team News: Kyle John Returns, Brandon Cover Rested
Moore was also pleased to welcome back wing-back Kyle John, who returned from injury in the Cheltenham fixture. Meanwhile, Brandon Cover was rested for the match after playing a significant amount of football recently. Moore explained that Cover would be back to full fitness for the weekend’s game.
“Brandon has done superbly for us and has played a lot of football. We had the option of leaving him out because I just thought he has had a lot of football. Everything is fine and he will be ready to train and be part of the squad at the weekend,” Moore said.
Writer’s View
With Port Vale’s lead at the top shrinking, Darren Moore’s call for more impetus is a timely reminder of the demands needed to maintain their position. Against Walsall, a win could be vital in maintaining their slim advantage, and Moore’s emphasis on seizing the initiative is crucial.
