Chris Martin was delighted with Port Vale's 2-0 win over Hereford United on Saturday - and even more pleased because the Valiants kept their third consecutive clean sheet in the league for the first time since 2006.

The home side didn't have it all their own way against John Trewick's men with Lewis Haldane receiving his marching orders for two first-half yellow cards, but Vale kept it tight before pushing on to get the second close to the final whistle.

"The fact that we have kept another clean sheet makes me happy, especially as I am a keeper because that's what we look for," said Chris.

"We have been so solid this season, a lot better than before, and you have got to be happy with that.

"It was a good test of character. It was an unfortunate sending off early in the game which we could have done without really. In the half-time talk, we had to get it in our heads that we had ten men and we had to keep it tight.

"We have worked hard at our fitness and nobody can knock us for that. Since Micky has come in, he has worked us hard, sometimes he has split up the squad to do specialist work and I think that in our recent form, that has shown. We have to keep it up now.

"We have had a lot of frustrating draws. Our goal difference isn't bad and our defensive record is second to none and now, towards the end of the season, we can start turning those frustrating draws into wins. Hopefully, we can push on.

"The players are tracking back very well and on set pieces, everyone is defending like their lives are depending on it. We have been fantastic."

Martin has been an ever-present between the sticks this season, but the shot-stopper is aware that Joe Anyon is knocking on the door, eager to get the keeper's jersey back.

"I am loving it. I have said before that I am going to keep giving 100% per game and I am loving it being in there at the moment. Hopefully I can continue for the rest of the season.

"It's healthy competition and I was doing the same with Joe last season, in terms of pushing him for the position. The whole squad has it and the subs and reserves are knocking on all of the players doors and keeping them on their toes. It's a winning formula - if you have players snapping at your heels, it makes you play better."