the 1971–72 campaign, as Lee largely stuck with the same squad, though he warned supporters that low attendances would force him to sell his best players. The season was largely forgettable, though increasing violence from hooligans was a cause for concern. £30,000 was raised by sale of some land and £10,000 was gained from Tony Lacey's move to Rochdale. 'Troubles at the top' were eventually settled with the re-election of old chairman Mark Singer. Only 2,743 turned up for the final appearance of club legend Roy Sproson, as Lee became increasingly angered by low turnouts. Only eleven points were won at home, as the club finished in mid-table yet again. Long serving players Mick Morris and Keith Ball were released, as was John Flowers. Numerous new signings were made for 1972–73, most notable Ray Williams. After a 7–0 thrashing by Rotherham United – blamed largely on Alan Boswell, the side went on a run of five wins. Lee continued to bemoan the fans, saying 'the people here are not genuinely interested in league football', though he turned down a job offer at Shrewsbury Town out 'of loyalty to the players'. Vale went out of the FA Cup 1–0 to West Ham United in the third round, Ron Greenwood claimed 'we were lucky to come out alive' after Vale gave a physical display, though Lee defended his players 'enthusiasm'. What was indefensible however was the violence of a minority of supporters, leaving two Londoners nursing stab wounds. In January John James went to Chester for £5,000. They finished the season in sixth, four points away from promotion. Before 1973–74 was under way, Sammy Morgan was sold to Aston Villa for just over £20,000. The defence was strengthened with the signings of David Harris, Keith Chadwick and John Ridley. In January, Lee took the job at Blackburn Rovers. The appointment of Roy Sproson as his replacement marked a great change for the dressing room atmosphere, as Sproson was more relaxed and insisted upon a more 'entertaining' style of play. Ill discipline on the pitch caused Sproson to arrange a lecture by a local referee to calm his players down and avoid bookings. The club finished poorly, though avoided relegation. New signings for 1974–75 included Terry Bailey, Frank Sharp and John Connaughton. The club pushed for promotion, but registered another sixth-place finish, again four points from promotion. This time it was their away