Morecambe boss remains philosophical after Port Vale defeat

Adams’ players lost 1-0 as Nathan Smith’s first-half header gave the home side the points with their only effort of any note.

That came just after a 45-minute break to clear snow off the Vale Park pitch.

Morecambe had the majority of the possession but could not find a way past a stubborn home defence.

Adams said: “We started on the front foot and we were in Port Vale’s 18-yard box for the majority of the opening 25 minutes, when the conditions were difficult.

“Both teams were finding it tough in the conditions but we were the team on top and Cole Stockton had a couple of turns and forced their keeper into a couple of saves before the players went off.

“The game stopped, which was right because the pitch was white, the ball wasn’t moving and the players’ studs were getting blocked up with snow.

“The players came back out and Sam Lavelle gave away a needless free-kick on the touchline, and they scored when Yann Songo’o and Cole Stockton lost their man and we lost a goal.

“That set us back and was the turning point of the game as they could then sit back and defend, which they do very well.

“We regrouped and we took the game to them in the second half and battled for the full 90 minutes, but I have to say they defended their lead very well and we just couldn’t get the breakthrough.

“There was no lack of effort and we gave our all and got into some good areas, but the ball just wouldn’t fall for us.

“We had the better opportunities but we came away with a 1-0 defeat which is what happens sometimes. We just couldn’t get the final pass right.”

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