Interim manager heaps praise on the players after excellent performance is rewarded with 2-0 win against Bristol Rovers.

• Andy Crosby | “The mentality and togetherness of the group shone through”
• Port Vale’s interim manager speaks to the media following 2-0 win against Bristol Rovers
• Crosby: “I thought the supporters got behind the team really well at the start of the game – created a really good atmosphere – well done to everyone.”

Port Vale’s interim manager Andy Crosby was delighted with his side’s performance as the Valiants took a huge step towards League One safety with a 2-0 victory against Bristol Rovers on Saturday afternoon.

Speaking post-match to BBC Radio Stoke’s Phil Bowers after goals from Ellis Harrison and Tom Pett sealed victory, Crosby said:

“I am delighted for the players; it has been a challenging period of time for the players, they have stuck together and come through challenging times.

“I thought the supporters got behind the team really well at the start of the game – created a really good atmosphere – well done to everyone.”

“Getting in front and getting the next goal was vitally important - and they came from situations we spoke about. We wanted to put them under pressure, wanted to put them under stress. Could we take advantage of key moments in the game – I’d say that first half we did.

“They [Bristol Rovers] were always in the game, they were patient, kept probing, they kept moving the ball, [but] they didn’t create clear cut chances, so credit to the whole team.

“We got the three points and that was the vital thing today.”

While victory had put the Valiants in a strong position to secure League One status, Crosby says there is still plenty of work for his side to do.

“It’s about whoever goes out to represent us as a group of football staff and players, the football club, and the fans - ultimately, it’s their club,” Crosby added.

“We are here for a short amount of time, it’s important we recognise that, and that we do the real basics of working as hard as we can, and showing passion and commitment because the fans really recognise that.

“We’ve got two games now to continue to build, but the mentality of the group, the togetherness of the group, in a difficult week for them, has shone through.

“There’s always something to play for, we’re representing this football club, there’s contract situations etc - there’s so many things.

“The players have to keep playing well, preparing well, and representing this club with pride.”