Vale's Trophy Test: Salford City Await in Second Round Clash

Port Vale travel to the Peninsula Stadium on Tuesday evening to face Salford City in the second round of the EFL Trophy, with the Valiants looking to build on their impressive start to the season.

This match marks the second meeting between the two sides in just ten days. Vale triumphed 2-0 in their opening league encounter, courtesy of a brace from Ben Garrity, and will be hoping to repeat their success in this cup tie.

The Valiants enter the match in confident spirits after a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Tranmere Rovers on Saturday, extending their unbeaten run in the league. Manager Darren Moore, reflecting on the draw, highlighted his team's progress: “If it was this type of game last season we might not have come away with anything. So, that’s a positive sign. We take a point and move on.”

Vale have a history of success in the EFL Trophy, finishing second in Group B last season, picking up five points from their three group matches. They defeated Crewe Alexandra in the opening game thanks to a goal from Garrity, drew 1-1 against Newcastle United U21s, winning 3-2 on penalties for an additional point, and then narrowly lost to a strong Wrexham side in their final group match. Their cup run ended in the second round with a 2-0 defeat to Bolton Wanderers.

Salford City, on the other hand, are struggling to find their form in the early stages of the season. They have yet to score a goal in competitive action this season, drawing 0-0 with Bradford City on Saturday following their opening-day defeat to Vale. Their cup campaign last season saw them exit at the group stage despite a victory over Manchester United U21s, failing to overcome Bolton Wanderers and Stockport County.

The Ammies are under the stewardship of Karl Robinson, who took charge in January after the departure of Neil Wood. Robinson's tenure has been marked by inconsistency, with the team failing to secure a victory in their opening four league matches. His assistant manager, Alex Bruce, further strengthens the link between Salford and Manchester United.

The previous encounter between the two sides on the opening day of the season provides a glimpse into what to expect on Tuesday night. Garrity's clinical finishing proved decisive, with Vale dominating the game and securing a deserved victory. Salford will be eager to avenge that defeat and avoid another disappointing cup exit.

With a confident Vale side facing a struggling Salford team, this match promises to be an intriguing encounter. Both teams will be eager to progress in the competition, with the Valiants hoping to continue their positive start to the season while Salford aim to rediscover their winning form.