Rico Richards: Port Vale Confident Amidst League Two Lead

Port Vale striker Rico Richards stated that the League Two leaders are experiencing no apprehension as their strong early-season performance continues. Richards, who began his career with West Bromwich Albion making two first-team appearances before moving to Aston Villa, highlighted the team’s confidence. Their 3-2 victory against AFC Wimbledon on Saturday marked Vale’s fifth consecutive win, extending their lead at the top of the table to four points. The 21-year-old Aston Villa loanee, Richards, scored for the second game in a row during Vale’s win and expressed his satisfaction playing under manager Darren Moore. He conveyed the team’s spirit to BBC Radio Stoke, saying, “Morale’s high, we’re all in form – the gaffer knows what he’s doing.” Richards added, “It doesn’t matter who we’re playing, we’re just getting rid of them – [exactly] what we need to do to get out of this league.” Richards possesses recent experience with promotion, having been on loan at Stockport last season during their League Two title-winning campaign. He noted that his current tenure at Vale Park reminds him of his time with the Hatters last term, when they achieved a league-record equalling 12 consecutive wins, followed by another eight in succession en route to securing the title. “There’s a lot of similarities,” commented Richards, who scored once in 11 appearances for Stockport. He further explained the team’s mindset: “We all believe we can win. We’re not really nervous going into each game – it’s all about going to get the next win. It’s all confidence and we’re riding high.” After making five substitute appearances, Richards has justified Moore’s decision to start him in the last two matches by scoring in both. He described his feelings, stating, “It feels amazing – I feel good every time I step out on to the pitch.” He also acknowledged the supporters’ role, adding, “The fans almost give you the push to get the goals.” Richards indicated that he anticipates “learn[ing] a lot” from the “exposure” he is gaining in games and described it as a “great experience for me being here and gelling with everyone.” However, he quickly emphasized the necessity of maintaining focus. “I can’t really do that as a young player. I need to focus on staying in the squad and doing well,” Richards affirmed. “If I’m not doing that, then I’m not playing and we’re not doing well. So it’s really heads down and on to the next [game].”