AN unexpected return to winning ways has kept Vale’s slim title aspirations alive.

Manager Chic McAleavy only had coach Fraser Ogilvie available to sit on the bench as his team defeated in-form Preston Athletic 2-0.

An encouraging performance from his team saw them race into an early lead through Keith Lough.

An injury to Taylor Aitchison on 23 minutes saw Ogilvie forced into action - as a full back.

Vale’s makeshift defence already had Darren Aird and Charles McAleavy deputising at centre half.

But a solid display prevented Graham O’Brien being troubled too much in the home goal.

And just before the break Lough darted away to double the advantage.

The second half proved to be a stalemate with neither team creating all that much.

Coach Ogilvie told the Peeblesshire News: “Considering we were without a few boys that was a good win for us.

“Our aim at the start of the season was to finish in the top four - if we win our remaining games we won’t be far behind Spartans at the top.”