Port Vale vs Sutton
Carabao Cup
Round 3
Tuesday
26th September 2023
Vale Park
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the EFL League Cup fixture between Port Vale and Sutton.
Port Vale vs Sutton: Preview
Port Vale form analysis
Vale began with an excellent 2-1 away win at Oxford, coming from behind late on through Iacovitti and Devine’s penalty. They followed up with a 1-0 home win over Crewe in the EFL Cup, with Garrity scoring the winner. Another Garrity goal earned Vale a 1-0 home victory over Northampton. However, defensive issues surfaced in a 2-3 home loss to Burton, despite Garrity and Arblaster scoring. Most recently, Vale drew 1-1 away at Cambridge, taking the lead through Garrity before being pegged back.
Overall, Vale have made an impressive start back in League One after promotion. Garrity has been excellent, scoring in every game so far. At their best, Vale have beaten quality sides like Oxford away. However, keeping clean sheets has been a problem, conceding in 4 of their 5 games.
If manager Andy Crosby can tighten them up defensively, Vale have the attacking threat to enjoy a successful season. But adding greater solidity at the back is crucial, especially in tight games. The opening weeks have demonstrated Vale can compete at this level.
Sutton form analysis
Sutton began with a 0-1 home loss to Forest Green, failing to create much. They were then thrashed 3-5 at home by Swindon in an entertaining game despite twice pegging Swindon back. Defensive issues persisted in a 1-4 defeat away at Accrington, with Patrick’s goal a consolation. Sutton did better in the EFL Cup, drawing 2-2 with Aston Villa U21 after going two down. Most recently they drew 1-1 at home against MK Dons, taking the lead through Sowunmi before being pegged back.
Overall, Sutton have struggled defensively, conceding 13 goals in their 5 games so far. They have shown attacking threat by scoring 7 times, including netting twice against Swindon and Villa. But conceding cheap goals has cost them points. If manager Matt Gray can tighten them up at the back, Sutton have enough quality to compete in League Two. But becoming harder to beat by cutting out defensive lapses is crucial. The draw with MK Dons sets a platform to build on now.
