Port Vale’s reserve team earned themselves a 2-1 victory over Rotherham United on Wednesday afternoon, with Harry Benns and the returning Anton Forrester getting on the scoresheet.
Despite not being at the game, first team boss, Neil Aspin, is delighted that the winning mentality around the club seems to be getting stronger.
“It’s a good habit to have,” said Aspin.
“There were some good and bad points to come out of the game, but it’s a win and that’s great whether it’s in a reserve fixture or not.
“I wasn’t at the game but we recorded it and I’ve watched it back. You sometimes get a different reaction from the players when you’re stood on the sideline.
“They didn’t know it was being filmed so it gives me another way of looking into things and seeing what they’re doing in a game, as well as seeing what the reaction is like.”
Anton Forrester found the opener just 14 minutes into the match and his return to fitness will provide the manager with another forward option.
The 23-year-old striker has suffered a number of injuries during his time at Vale Park so far, but it is now up to him to work his way into Aspin’s plans.
“It was great to see him back on the pitch,” Aspin said.
“He only played 45 minutes but he was a threat and he scored a goal, so it’s very much down to him and what he wants do in his career.
“I’m going to have a chat with him soon about things. The only way anyone benefits is if he’s playing football regularly and if he’s playing to his potential - if he does that, the club will benefit, but more importantly, the lad will too.”