Port Vale Reserves manager Mick Ede, was delighted to get off to a winning start in The Central League after a 2-1 win away to Morecambe.
The Valiants go into the season defending their title, and the winning start to the campaign was the perfect way to start that defence.
Two late goals from substitute Jack Wakefield and loanee striker Scott Quigley within the space of a minute ensured Vale took all three points after falling behind to an early Kevin Ellison goal, and manager Mick Ede felt the win was what they deserved.
“I think second half we would’ve been disappointed if we didn’t get something out of it.
“Danny Pugh and myself said we deserved to get a goal out of this at least. We’ve created four five great chances from inside the box in the second half and they’ve got blocks in and the keepers had some good saves. We end up hitting one which gets a deflection and ends up in the back of the net and we’re away.
“Then we score quickly on the break again with Quigs getting the goal and I think he deserved it. He’s done well holding the ball up and getting the midfield into play and he got what he deserved.”
Mick Ede opted to bring in six first team players to feature against a strong Morecambe side.
James Gibbons captained the side, whilst Scott Quigley, Idris Kanu, Sam Hornby, Brendon Daniels and Theo Vassell all featured alongside a group of young, talented, upcoming Vale players.
With a wealth of experience in the side today for Mick Ede, the manager felt it was a fantastic opportunity for his upcoming youngsters to gain experience from. He was also impressed with the performance of his midfielder, Joe Berks.
“You’ve got the likes of Hayden Campbell playing in the biggest game he’s played in against a senior side, a team of pros. We’ve put six pros out ourselves who can only help him and the others improve.
“Joe Berks as well, in the second half he played a lot better, he moved the ball a lot simpler and quicker. We know he’s good going forward against smaller defensive sides.
“But because Morecambe today were probably a bit more dominant you could see the areas he needs to develop. Where to be, when to press, whom to mark. On the ball he’s going to be good, he’s power and he creates plenty of chances.”