Macclesfield started their new year celebrations on the pitch with a derby win over Port Vale.

The Silkmen came into the game without a win in seven, while Vale had won their three previous matches, but a goal in each half was enough to send their near neighbours home empty-handed.

Macc's goal drought was ended from the unlikeliest of sources – Port Vale goalkeeper Stuart Tomlinson. Cruelly, Matty Hamshaw's 25-yard half-volley won't be marked against his name but his sweet strike came off the foot of the post and in off the unfortunate keeper.

The home team were by far the stronger outfit and George Donnelly – a constant thorn in the side of ex-Stockport defender Gareth Owen – almost doubled the lead in first-half injury time.

After winning a free kick himself Donnelly rasped the ball beyond Tomlinson but was dismayed to see the ball slam against the bar and back into play.

Just after the hour mark, Vale substitute Marc Richards – on the pitch a mere five minutes - drew his side level, stooping at the back post to head in Doug Loft's cross from close range.

That goal sparked Vale into life and Macc were forced into a rearguard action, none more so than when Jonny Bateson rescued his side with a goal-line clearance 20 minutes from time. But seconds later Macc were back in front as Donnelly gathered the ball and ran at Owen, jinking inside to bury a fine winning goal inside Tomlinson's post.

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