Half-Time Report: Early Doug Loft strike gives Port Vale lead

Port Vale have recorded a 1-0 half-time lead over Coventry City at Sixfields this afternoon.

© Getty Images

The visitors were given the ideal start when Doug Loft fired Vale ahead after 37 seconds by dinking the ball over the out-rushing Joe Murphy before finishing from close range.

City responded well to falling behind so early and almost restored parity on eight minutes through Carl Baker, whose fierce shot whistled wide of the mark.

Micky Adams's men then spurned good opportunities to double their advantage as Tom Pope forced Murphy into a good save, before Loft fired over the bar from a good position.