Walsall lost top spot in League Two for the first time in four months as Port Vale came from behind in an explosive first half to secure a 3-2 win that could prove decisive in the promotion race.
Three goals in a pulsating final 10 minutes of the opening half saw the visitors turn the game on its head, with Lorent Tolaj’s brace and a goal from Ben Garrity cancelling out early strikes from Taylor Allen and Levi Amantchi.
Walsall, desperate for a return to form, had gone eight games without victory prior to kick-off, but looked set to snap that streak after a spirited opening. They were denied an early breakthrough when Jamille Matt’s header was ruled out after just 12 seconds for a push, but soon responded after falling behind.
Tolaj’s stunning overhead kick opened the scoring in the fourth minute, his acrobatic effort finding the net after hitting the post and rebounding off goalkeeper Sam Hornby. But parity was quickly restored, Allen coolly converting from the penalty spot following a handball by Jayden Stockley.
Momentum shift and missed chances
Within minutes, the hosts were ahead. Amantchi muscled past his marker to steer in McEntee’s low cross and appeared in the mood for more, forcing Amos into a fingertip save midway through the half. But defensive lapses proved costly again as Garrity smashed in from close range, and McEntee’s clumsy foul on Tolaj gifted Vale the chance to take the lead before the break—one they seized.
The second half saw far fewer chances, with Vale focused on managing their lead. Garrity almost produced a spectacular fourth, his volley drawing a fine save from Hornby, but the visitors had already done enough. They closed out the match confidently and climbed above Walsall into the promotion places with six games remaining.
Walsall had the edge in shots on target and corners, but possession and key moments went Vale’s way. Despite identical touches inside the box, it was the Valiants who made them count.
Site opinion
This defeat could mark a turning point in Walsall’s season. Their early-season consistency has evaporated and, with nine winless games now behind them, confidence looks to be draining. While their attack continues to show promise, defensive lapses are undermining their promotion campaign. Port Vale, on the other hand, were clinical when it mattered and appear to be peaking at the perfect time. With both teams in the mix, the battle for automatic promotion is far from over—but it’s Vale who now carry the momentum.
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