Neil Aspin has praised his hard-working Port Vale side as they defeated promotion-chasing Coventry City 1-0 yesterday.

Nathan Smith got the only goal of the game late on which allowed Vale to climb up one place in League Two.

Speaking after the game, Aspin expressed his admiration for his side as they heavily impressed at Vale Park. 

He said: “I’m happy with any win and any three points.

“We got a clean sheet as well. It wasn’t a classic in terms of free-flowing football – it had the other side where we were organised, determined and committed. All the players put in an excellent shift, that’s what got us the result.

“It’s all tough to the players because they put a shift in. They deserve all the credit.”

The gaffer was also pleased with the players’ individual performance, including the return of Joe Davis who impressed. 

“For us to pick up results, everyone has to do their jobs,” said Aspin.

“You could argue that some players had a better game than others, but defensively, our shape was excellent, the midfielders restricted Coventry to very little and that was the key to winning the game.

“Joe did really well on Saturday, he did really well in such a difficult game. He competed well and I like his attitude – it’s what I want to see.”

Aspin also admired the Valiant support yesterday, with over 7,000 in attendance on a traditional Boxing Day encounter at Vale Park.

He said: “The fans make a big difference. 

“When I took over I said that I wanted everyone to pull together. This club is all about the supporters. Managers come and go, as well as players but the supporters will always be here.

“We need to give them a team that they are proud of, that they can identify with. If we keep putting in good performances, I am hoping that we can pull back some supporters that we have lost.”