As the League One season edges closer to its climax, Port Vale's upcoming clash with Bristol Rovers at Vale Park on March 29, 2024, carries substantial weight for both sides.
Here's a comprehensive preview of the match, offering insights into team forms, key players, and a scoreline prediction.
Current Form
Port Vale's Current Form
Port Vale rekindled their hopes of escaping relegation after securing a crucial 1-0 victory against Burton Albion, ending a 14-game winless streak.
This win has brought them within touching distance of safety, three points adrift with eight games remaining.
Bristol Rover's Current Form
Their opponents, Bristol Rovers, are comfortably placed in the midtable but are looking to bounce back from a three-game winless run, highlighted by a heavy 5-0 defeat to Lincoln City in their last fixture.
Team News
Port Vale Team News
Port Vale's squad remains without Uche Ikpeazu and Dan Gore due to injuries.
However, Tom Sang could be in contention for a starting spot after his impactful substitution in their last match.
Baylee Dipepa, fresh from his goal-scoring stint with England Under-17s, is expected to return to the squad.
Bristol Rovers Team News
Bristol Rovers are facing their own injury woes, with Jordan Rossiter, Jack Hunt, and Luke McCormick sidelined.
James Wilson, back from a suspension, is poised to strengthen the defence alongside Elkan Baggott.
Upfront, Chris Martin, with 15 goals this season, will be crucial for the visitors.
Key Players
For Port Vale, the spotlight will be on Ryan Loft, whose late winner in their last game could spark a run of form when it matters most.
Bristol Rovers will lean on Chris Martin's prolific goal-scoring abilities to secure a positive result away from home.
Scoreline Prediction
Given the stakes and the recent upturn in Port Vale's form, the match is poised to be a tightly contested affair.
However, with the home advantage and a newfound belief, Port Vale might edge out Bristol Rovers with a 2-1 victory
FAQs
What time does the match start? The match is scheduled for 3 pm UK time on March 29, 2024.
Where is the match being played? The match will take place at Vale Park, home of Port Vale.
Can Port Vale escape relegation? Yes, following their recent win, Port Vale has reignited their survival hopes, sitting just three points from safety with eight games left.
Who are the key players to watch? Ryan Loft for Port Vale and Chris Martin for Bristol Rovers are the key players to watch, given their goal-scoring capabilities.
Port Vale 
Bristol Rovers 
