Duffy confident going into Cheltenham game

Richard Duffy knows just how important the next few weeks can be for a side with high hopes this season, but feels Vale have what it takes to see themselves through a busy festive period.

He said: “We are coming up to halfway through the season now and the Christmas period is going to be an important time for all teams in all division, but midway through January I think you get an indication of where you might finish in the table

“If you can put two or three wins in over Christmas and other teams don’t, then all of a sudden, within the space of ten days, you could be clear of people, so it could be massive for us, but we are looking forward to it.

Vale face a big test this weekend when they take on third placed Cheltenham Town. They are well aware that a defeat would see the Robins leap-frog Vale into second spot, whilst a Vale victory would open up a gap once again.

The defender said: “Saturday’s game at Cheltenham will be a big test of character for us coming back from three defeats in a row and it will be a big ask for us to go there to Whaddon Road.

“They are a strong side, but we fancy our chances away from home no matter who we are playing. This season we have been better on the road than we have at home, so we will fancy our chances on Saturday.”