Port Vale secured an impressive 4-2 victory over Rochdale at Vale Park on 31 October 2026, with a strong second-half performance sealing all three points in English Football League Two.

In a match that featured six goals, Port Vale’s attacking quality and set-piece threat proved too much for Rochdale, who twice equalised but were ultimately overwhelmed in the closing stages. The win gives Vale valuable momentum and reinforces their credentials in a competitive League Two season.

Match overview

Port Vale started brightly and took the game to Rochdale with an aggressive pressing approach. Rochdale, however, remained resilient and found ways to respond whenever the home side threatened to pull away. The match was finely balanced for long periods before Vale’s greater attacking depth and composure in the final third made the difference.

Key moments

• 9 minutes: Jayden Stockley gave Port Vale the lead with a clinical finish after a cross from the right.
• 27 minutes: Ian Henderson equalised for Rochdale with a well-taken chance inside the box.
• 41 minutes: Ethan Chislett restored Vale’s advantage with a curling effort from the edge of the area.
• 56 minutes: Kairo Mitchell brought Rochdale level again, finishing a quick attacking move.
• 68 minutes: Ben Garrity put Vale back in front with a powerful header from a corner.
• 84 minutes: Ronan Curtis sealed the win with a composed finish on the counterattack.

Tactical story

Port Vale’s midfield worked hard to win second balls and keep Rochdale pinned back. The home side’s wide players stretched the defence, creating space for crosses and late runs into the box. Rochdale looked dangerous when they broke quickly, but they struggled to defend set pieces and were eventually punished by Vale’s physical presence.

As the game opened up in the second half, Vale’s substitutes helped maintain the intensity. The home side managed the closing minutes well, limiting Rochdale’s chances and ensuring there would be no late comeback.

Standout players

Jayden Stockley led the line effectively and gave Rochdale’s centre-backs a difficult afternoon. Ben Garrity’s leadership in midfield and his goal from a corner were crucial, while Ronan Curtis added the finishing touch. Rochdale’s Ian Henderson and Kairo Mitchell took their goals well, but the visitors’ defensive unit will need to improve after conceding four.

League Two impact

The victory strengthens Port Vale’s position in the League Two table and gives them confidence in the race for promotion and playoff places. Rochdale, meanwhile, will be disappointed to have scored twice away from home and still leave empty-handed. Their focus will quickly shift to tightening a defence that has conceded too many goals in recent fixtures.