Vale did have their chances at Sixfields but failed to convert and they were punished by Pinnock’s fine finish and a stoppage-time second from McWilliams. Here are our player ratings from Sixfields...
5. Aaron McGowan
At wing-back and contributed in both attack and defence in a good display. Cobblers have a 50 per cent win record when he starts this season compared to 24 per cent when he doesn't... 7.5 Photo: Pete Norton
6. Mitch Pinnock
Given a role to do at wing-back in the absence of Koiki and Brough and he did it very well. Carried a threat in attack throughout but not at the expense of his defensive duties. Fine run and finish gave Cobblers the lead and was disciplined in the second half... 8 CHRON STAR MAN Photo: Pete Norton
7. Ben Fox
Contributed to some nice passages in possession in the first half but there were also sloppy moments in a relatively even midfield battle... 7 Photo: Pete Norton
8. Marc Leonard
Uncharacteristically sloppy at times in the first half and was fortunate not to be punished after being caught in midfield more than once. Still played well though, especially after the break... 7 Photo: Pete Norton