The Vale are back in action this Saturday as we make the short trip to the Pirelli Stadium to take on Burton Albion.

The Valiants will be backed by over 900 fans as we take on Burton Albion for the fourth time this season.

Gaffers thoughts:

Here’s what Darren Moore had to say about our upcoming trip to the Pirelli Stadium:

“The players are grateful that we have a game on the horizon against Burton, we know the importance of the game. For us at the football club, it’s not only the next game available, but it’s the next game for the players and myself to put what we felt the wrongs right on Saturday because there’s far more to the team than what we showed on Saturday.”

“The game's important for both clubs, we’re selfishly looking at ourselves in terms of the game and that’s what we’re looking and making sure that the group of players are ready, focused and ready for what’s going to be another difficult game on Saturday, but one that we’re really looking forward to.”

The Opposition

Burton Albion currently sit in 19th position in Sky Bet League One, six points above the Vale. They come into the game with just one point in their last five games, including three consecutive losses in their last three outings.

In their last game, they were beaten 1-0 by Exeter City at St James’ Park. Reece Cole’s first half strike was enough to earn the Grecians all three points. Exeter were also reduced to ten-men at half time when Zak Jules was sent off. However, Burton couldn’t make their man advantage count.

Who’s in Charge?

The Brewers are managed by former Vale forward Martin Paterson in what it his first managerial role of his career.

After retiring as a player in 2018 he has since been on the coaching staff of Tampa Bay Rowdies, Inter Miami, Barnsley and Swansea City.

In January 2024, he took over the reins at Burton Albion following the departure of Dimo Maamria. Since his appointment, Patterson has overseen seven losses, two draws and three wins as manager of the football club.

Player to Watch - Joe Powell

Powell has been the shining light for the Brewers this season, he has played a pivotal role at the heart of their midfield. The 25-year-old has scored four goals and got two assists so far this season and his ball striking and eye for a pass have played a part in his side's survival chances.

Another player to keep an eye out for is Mark Helm. The Brewers midfielder has got seven goal involvements so far this season which comes in the form of four goals and three assists. The 22-year-old joined the club in 2023 after spending his youth career at Manchester United and Burnley.

Last Time We Met

Burton Albion 0-2 Port Vale, Tuesday 14th November 2023.

The Valiants travelled to the Pirelli Stadium in the Emirates FA Cup First Round replay after the sides drew 0-0 at Vale Park. Vale dominated the game and took the lead in the 31^st minute when Gavin Massey tucked home the rebound following Uche Ikpeazu’s long-range strike.

In the second half, Vale continued to enjoy having most of the ball and deservedly doubled the lead in the 82^nd minute when Lewis Cass got on the end of Tom Sang’s cross at the near post to send Vale into the Second Round of the Emirates FA Cup.

Match Officials

David Rock has been appointed as the referee for Saturday’s fixture against Burton Albion. He will be assisted by Marvyn Amphlett and Alistair Nelson. Richard Wigglesworth will be the fourth official.

David Rock has been in charge of 29 games this season. Thirteen in League One, thirteen in League Two, two in the FA Cup and one in the Carabao Cup.

Rock officiated the Valiants' opening-day defeat against Barnsley earlier this season.