1961–62 Port Vale F.C. season
| 1961–62 season | ||
|---|---|---|
| Chairman | Joe Machin | |
| Manager | Norman Low | |
| Stadium | Vale Park | |
| Football League Third Division | 12th (45 Points) | |
| FA Cup | Fifth Round (knocked out by Fulham) | |
| League Cup | First Round (knocked out by Blackpool) | |
| Top goalscorer | League: Arthur Longbottom (16) All: Bert Llewellyn, Arthur Longbottom (20 each) | |
| Highest home attendance | 28,226 vs. Sunderland, 31 January 1961 | |
| Lowest home attendance | 4,770 vs. Swindon Town, 14 April 1962 | |
| Average home league attendance | 8,993 | |
| Biggest win | 4–0 (twice) | |
| Biggest defeat | 1–4 vs. Southend United, 16 October 1961 | |
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The 1961–62 season was Port Vale's 50th season of football in the English Football League, and their third season in the Third Division, under manager Norman Low and chairman Joe Machin. After a pessimistic opening—described by local media as "gloom has descended" — Vale regrouped with several key signings, including Arthur Longbottom, Stan Steele, John Nicholson, Colin Grainger, and Ralph Hunt, while offloading Cliff Portwood to Grimsby Town to balance the books. The squad eventually settled into a mid‑table 12th‑place finish with 45 points.
Vale's FA Cup run became the campaign's defining highlight. After holding Sunderland to a goalless draw at Roker Park — where goalkeeper Ken Hancock famously thwarted Brian Clough — they won the replay 3–1 at Vale Park in front of one of their highest home attendances (28,226) and were awarded the Sunday Pictorial "Giant‑Killer Cup". Their progress ended in the Fifth Round with a contentious defeat to Fulham, amid disputed refereeing decisions. In the League Cup, Vale were knocked out in the First Round by Blackpool.
Leading scorers Arthur Longbottom and Bert Llewellyn netted 20 goals each across all competitions, though the overall attack remained inconsistent and under-supported. At Vale Park, average attendance stood at approximately 8,993, with a low of 4,770 (versus Swindon) and a standout high of 28,226 for the Sunderland cup tie. Off‑field developments included the opening of an £8,000 social club at Vale Park, aimed at expanding the stadium's community appeal and family focus.
Ultimately, the 1961–62 campaign was one of consolidation and occasional excitement. While league form never threatened promotion, a glorious FA Cup performance — toppling Sunderland and thrilling Vale fans — provided the season's standout memories.