Benny Ashley-Seal scored the only goal of the game as Vale lost goalkeeper Lucas Covolan to a second-half red card. Here are our player ratings from Sixfields. ..
9. Mitch Pinnock
Has impressed in attack during pre-season but some of his best work here came defensively. Tracked back diligently to help out Mills, making two brilliant blocks. His set-pieces and long throws were dangerous throughout... 7
10. Benny Ashley-Seal
The match-winner. Had a quiet game in truth and his influence faded to such an extent that he was hooked not long after half-time, but for strikers it's all about scoring goals and he was in the right place at the right time... 7
11. Nicke Kabamba
Grew into the game after a subdued start. Some nice touches, held the ball up well and brought others into play. Slashed at one chance. Fantastic work to force Covolan into an error that led to the game-defining red card... 7
12. Danny Rose
Did exactly what he was brought on to do - be a nuisance, hold the ball up and win free-kicks... 6.5