After a good start to the season, which has seen Vale score eleven goals in four games. Michael O’Connor believes the strike force the Valiant’s have at the club is good enough to keep the run going, if the team can keep it tight at the back.
He said: “After the point on Tuesday, we wanted a game as quick as possible now Saturday’s come we’re looking to get three points.
“If we can get a good home record this season, and take some points away from home, we’ll be around the play-offs.
“I think the teams that do get promoted from this league have good home form, as well as the away form.
“I think we’ll score goals this season, but promoted teams keep clean sheets as well; as a team not just the back four and keeper.
“We need to keep clean sheets because we can score goals with Ben Williamson and Tom Pope up front, but if we can defend well we’ll be up there.”
Michael believes that the amount of quality midfield players in the team will help him keep playing well to retain his place, because he knows if he doesn’t someone else can come in and will play well.
He explained: “You want competition for places, if you don’t have that then you can become complacent.
“If no-one else is fighting for your place, then you just think you’re playing every week, but we have players now that can come in and do a good job.
“If I’m injured or not playing well enough, I know the Gaffer will change it quick enough to bring someone else in.
“Me and Chris Lines need to keep on our toes, as does every player in the team, but at the minute we’re all working hard together.”
Watch the full interview later today on Valiant Player.