A look ahead to Saturday's big game at the Coral Windows Stadium
Despite Bradford’s exceptional home form so far this season, Saturday’s trip to the Coral Window’s Stadium, or Valley Parade as we know it, holds no fears for Micky Adams and his team.
The Manager has every faith in his side and, by his own admission, will go there not hoping to avoid defeat, but in search of a Port Vale victory.
The home defeat to leaders Gillingham last weekend is seen as a blip. Defensive errors were blamed for the two goals conceded, but the team have worked hard in training this week to put that right.
The team may well tighten up as a unit on Saturday afternoon, a move that could perhaps reduce its effectiveness going forward, but three points will still be the ultimate target.
The Vale boss hinted that there could be changes following last weekend’s reversal, but don’t be too surprised to see the same staring eleven.
The team is so far unchanged in nine consecutive matches and the results during those opening games of the season speak for themselves, and are down to those same players.
Bradford’s unexpected successful start to the season has made one or two experts sit up and take notice after several years of under-achieving by the Bantams.
It has come as no surprise to Vale boss Micky Adams, however, as he was on record in the back end of last season tipping them to challenge.
Back then he said he believed Phil Parkinson was building a side geared for a promotion push this season.
Bradford were beaten 3-1 at Priestfield by Gillingham on the opening day of the season, but since then only Rotherham (4-0) have got the better of Parkinson’s side.
Four home games this season have produced twelve Bradford goals and twelve points and they feel they can beat anybody on home turf.
Vale have a decent record at the Coral Windows Stadium in recent years, but they know tomorrow they will face a stern test.
There should be another good away following in attendance, and the Vale supporters should be under no illusion as to the part they can play in proceedings.
Several of the players have come out and said what a difference the fans make whilst the lads are out there doing the business. More is called for on Saturday afternoon.
If you can’t make it to the match, you can always listen to full match commentary on Valiant Player, or get regular match updates on Twitter if you follow @port-vale.co.uk