Tom Pope showed superb form in the month of October, scoring six goals in five league outings, a record that earned him the accolade of Sky Bet League Two Player of the Month.
The 32-year-old scored his first goal of October during a home defeat to Grimsby Town, but his impressive displays continued as the Valiants put together a run of three consecutive victories.
He fired home a brace against Cheltenham Town before registering another double three days later as Neil Aspin's men saw off Morecambe at the Globe Arena.
Promotion chasing Exeter City were the next side to be undone by the striker's clinical nature as he scored the decisive goal so seal another away triumph.
Goals are not the only things that Pope has produced, he also provided an assist too and the manager has praised the experienced forward's all-round contribution.
“It is an award that Tom fully deserves. He has been excellent not only in his play but also in his work rate. He shows everything that I want in a player with his desire and commitment.” Aspin said.
Pope, the award winner himself, was delighted when he found out that he had beaten off the competition to be voted as Player of the Month. However, he was quick to praise the entire Valiants squad for their efforts.
“It’s always good to win these awards but it’s a team game," he said.
"Football’s about what you win as a team, you can have as many Player of the Month trophies as you want at home, but never have a promotion so it’s great personally, but I’d swap it for a league winners medal.
"I just think the whole team improved and supported me a lot better in October. They got the ball out wide and put plenty of crosses in and that’s what I thrive off. I think the team’s performances over the last month have improved and we’ve been able to get a few more chances for me to put away.”
Vale supporters will now be hoping that their team can continue to pick up results in Sky Bet League Two and that Pope keeps firing in front of goal. Friday's trip to Newport County will provide the striker with another opportunity to add to his tally.