RUFC - Fans Interview - Port Vale

Rotherham United take on Port Vale on New Years Day at Don Valley and, among all the Christmas and New Year celebrations we found Vale fan, Tom, who took time out to answer our questions....

Name or Username
Tom Bourne

How long have you been following the Valiants?
24 years

What made 'Port Vale' your team?
I seem to remember my Dad telling me that I could either support Vale or no one else! Luckily, I didn't really need asking. Growing up in Birmingham surrounded by Villa, Blues and West Brom fans was actually quite fun in the 1990s.

Can you remember your first Port Vale game?
Sort of. We beat Mansfield (1987) 3-2 after coming from 2-0 down, though I'd be lying if I said that I actually remembered anything of the game. I think Robbie Earle, my all time favourite player scored.

You're flying high in League Two at the moment - will you be in the top three at the end of the season?
At the moment I'm not sure. It looks as if Adams is on his way and a lot will be dependent on who the club replace him with and if we can hold on to our key players in the January window. I'd be hopeful of a top 7 finish but automatic promotion is up in the air.

Who should we be looking out for on Saturday?
I'd say Gary Roberts, seen as he was sacked by yourselves last year! He's the key to our performances and has been as good as gold since he came.

Micky Adams - is he 'the' man to take you into League One and above? And what are your thoughts on his link with the Blades?
He certainly was, but as I say he's off. Without doubt he has been the single reason why we have gone from relegation candidates under Dean Glover to automatic promotion contenders in 18 months. His loss will hit us hard.

When you think of Rotherham United what are your first thoughts?
At the moment your ground springs to mind! Obviously you had a lot of success in the late 90s/early 2000 getting into Division One, and have always been a competitive side at this level.
Have you been to Don Valley before - if so, what are your thoughts?
No, not a ground I have made as of yet. Hopefully, the club can get back to Rotherham asap.

Prediction for the game?
Always try to be positive, so I'll say a 1-1 draw.

Thanks for taking time out to answer our questions, Tom. We have a new ground more or less sorted and will be back in Rotherham as soon as possible. Good Luck, after Saturday (!), for the rest of the season!

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