Dodgy Goths, Dr Who, the Boot and Shoe industry, a big tall tower and the creator of The Watchmen. After the disappointment of the 1-1 draw at Dartford in The FA Cup the Port Vale roadshow moves on to the Sixfields Stadium and Northampton Town on Saturday.

Despite our recent lacklustre performances we are still 2nd in the league, the lack of consistency from those around us keeping us in the automatic promotion places. Our hosts on Saturday are currently in 19th position and have won their last two league games after suffering a demoralising five straight defeats, including the 3-4 home loss to hereford after leading 3-0 at half-time. Yesterday they eased through into the 2nd round of The FA Cup with a 3-0 win away at Forest Green, achieving something we didn't against non-league opposition.

Anyway, let's talk about Northampton. Apparently it's the largest town in Europe, and has given the world the current Dr Who - Matt Smith - 80's Goths Bauhaus, it's the home of the Boot and Shoe industry - although, like other traditional British industries it now barely exists, and has the Express Lift Tower - now defunct, but in it's time was used for testing lifts. If you're walking to the ground from the train station you can't miss it, right next to the rugby ground. Alan Moore - creator of The Watchmen comic is a local resident, as is The Jazz Butcher - the much lauded indie/alternative singer/songwriter from the 80's.

Marc Richards used to ply his trade with the cobblers, the magnificent Paul Harsley and the industrious Leon Constantine have also played at Sixfields. In recent seasons we've seen goals from wonderful loanees Stefan Moore and David McGoldrick at sixfields! McGoldrick is, quite amazingly, now a highly regarded player at Notts Forest, and is apparently worth a million quid. Very bizarre.

As like so many League 2 grounds there is no beer on sale for visiting fans, therefore thirsty travellers will need to look elsewhere for a few scoops. The town centre, which is a half hour walk from the ground, has a couple of Wetherspoons - The Moon On The Square - which is next to the market square, and the Eastgate - which is located at the top end of the pedestrianised area (imagine you are walking towards the old County Ground and you'll see it on the right). There is not a great deal near to the ground. The Sixfields Tavern is usually 'home fans only', although last season us Vale Fans mingled happily with the home fans. It shows Sky Sports as well, so if there is a lunchtime game on view it's as good a place as any.

The threat from the Cobblers comes in the form of playmaker Kev Thornton - we had him for a trial when Adams became Gaffer, and Micky quickly got rid as he was well out of shape, and Michael Jacobs - a very impressive teenager who is one to watch for the future.

Match Prediction:- Northampton Town 1-2 Port Vale

Photo: Action Images

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