Port Vale have officially been relegated to League Two following Reading's 3-2 defeat at Burton Albion this afternoon.
The Brewers, sat directly above the drop zone, scored twice inside the first 15 minutes and added a third before the break. Lewis Wing and Sam Smith netted for the Royals, but a sloppy start proved costly.
Now five points clear of Cheltenham Town with six to play for, but a better goal difference, Martin Paterson's side sit in the driving seat heading into the last day.
For Vale, the victory signalled an end to League One life after their 2-0 loss at Bolton Wanderers.
Reading and Port Vale formed a special relationship this season with the way Darren Moore's side supported the Royals and their supporters when a match between the sides was abandoned due to protests in January.
A special moment from last night as Club President, (Sir) John Rudge, received a standing ovation from everyone in attendance at the Select Car Leasing Stadium! 👏
— Port Vale FC (@OfficialPVFC) February 21, 2024
Thank you, @ReadingFC. 🤍#PVFC | #ReadingFC pic.twitter.com/oaLcZTdJdL
As a thank you, Reading supporters raised nearly £10,000 toward a statue of legendary Port Vale boss, John Rudge.
Reading won the rescheduled fixture 2-0 and Rudge was a guest of honour at the SCL Stadium, addressing the crowd at half-time.
Cheltenham Town must win both of their remaining fixtures, and Burton must lose to Fleetwood Town, to have a hope of surviving.
Carlisle United and Fleetwood Town have already been consigned to League Two football next season.
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