MacLean super strike seals win

Steven MacLean struck from long range to earn the Owls three more vital league points in their push for promotion. The Scot curled a fine effort into the top corner from 25 yards out to register his 15th goal of the season, and stretch Wednesday's unbeaten league run to eight games.

This report from TeamTalk.com:

Sheffield Wednesday beat Port Vale 1-0 thanks to a superb strike from Steve MacLean in an otherwise dull encounter at Hillsborough. MacLean struck after 15 minutes, beating Jonathan Brain with a fine curling effort from 25 yards for his 15th goal of the season.

Wednesday's Glenn Whelan headed over from a James Quinn cross early on while Chris Brunt put a couple of shots off target. Vale's solitary serious attempt on goal in the first half came from Levi Reid, whose deflected long-range drive was easily saved by David Lucas.

As the home side went in search of a second goal after the restart, Whelan fired just over and Brunt's 25-yard free-kick was kept out by Brain. In a rare Vale attack, the ball skimmed the top of the bar following a Ryan Brown cross. Vale substitute Lee Matthews put a low angled shot wide and Nathan Lowndes headed wide near the end.

Half-time: Owls 1-0 Port Vale

Paul Sturrock's post match comments:
"We looked a very, very tired team. We didn't show the zip or enthusiasm we have in the past here. There was a weariness about them. But although it wasn't a classic, they've dug the result out."

"One player was violently sick at half-time, another spent the entire 15 minutes having his back massaged, but they soldiered on and I was pleased with their attitude and work rate."

"It was a stodgy night but sometimes on those occasions we've caved in. Tonight we showed the character we're starting to build at the club."

AnzOwls Verdict: The legs might be tired, but the mental toughness is improving all the time. A fine goal by MacLean to seal the points.