Bunn wary of Vale response

Athletic boss Frankie Bunn is expecting to come up against a determined Port Vale side at Boundary Park tomorrow.

Neil Aspin’s Valiants were thumped 6-2 at home by Lincoln in their previous League Two fixture last weekend.

They did bounce back with a 2-0 midweek win against Middlesbrough under-21s in the Checkatrade Trophy, but Bunn reckons Athletic are set to come up against a Vale team who will respond further for their manager.

“When you've been beaten the way that Port Vale were beaten last Saturday I think they'll be tight,” said Bunn.

“Albeit a lot of the goals came from set plays, but I think any manager in their right mind would tighten things up and be disciplined in their performance especially away from home.

“I've played against Neil (Aspin) when he was at Leeds.

“I haven't come across him managerial or coaching wise yet, but since he got his chance at Port Vale he's been doing a good job there.”

Athletic face the prospect of seven games in 22 days starting with the visit of Vale tomorrow, but Bunn thinks his side may have benefited from a short break as they haven’t played since a 4-1 win at Bradford in the Checkatrade Trophy last Tuesday week.

“Hopefully the break will be an advantage,” added Bunn.

“The players have had their time to refresh and clear their minds because not only physically but mentally it’s been tough, so we're recharged and ready to go with a real positiveness around the squad.

“We were good Monday back in training.

“Obviously some players weren’t here, but everyone else came back refreshed and we’ve had a good three/four days now in preparation for the Port Vale game.”

Meanwhile, Athletic legend Andy Ritchie will be back in action this weekend at Mossley’s Seel Park.

The former striker will be playing for Emmaus, the homeless charity, who are taking on a team made up from Greater Manchester Police on Sunday (October 21).

There will also be a number of family activities taking place including a penalty shoot-out challenge, charity raffle, inflatable assault course, axe throwing, archery and face painting. 

The match kicks off at 2pm and entry is £5 for adults and free for under 16s.

All proceeds raised from the day will be going to the Greater Manchester Mayor’s Homelessness Fund.

Doors are open from 1pm at Mossley AFC, Seel Park, 11 Market St, Mossley OL5 0ES.

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