David Howland's last-gasp winner kept alive Vale's slim hopes of survival alive as they clinched a 2-1 home victory over Leyton Orient.Howland, an 18-year-old midfielder on loan from Birmingham, scooped the ball into the roof of the net after Glenn Morris failed to cling hold of a shot from Danny Whitaker.

Orient looked set for victory in the first half although they were fortunate to be awarded a 26th-minute penalty. Jabo Ibehre went to ground after only the slightest contact from Adam Eckersley and Adam Boyd stepped up to give Joe Anyon no chance from the spot.

But Vale came alive in the second period as Whitaker and young debutant Simon Richman forced fine saves from Glenn Morris in quick succession.

Marc Richards deservedly equalised with his second goal in two games when he controlled Eckersley's cross and fired past a stranded Morris. Orient could have won it themselves in the first minute of stoppage time when defender Tamika Mkandawire volleyed against a post from four yards.

But Howland made no mistake with just seconds remaining as his first goal in league football secured Vale successive victories for the first time this season and dealt a major blow to Orient's play-off hopes.

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