The result was expulsion from the League, however, before the start of the following season a vote of 39 to 9 allowed the club to be immediately readmitted to the competition.

The whole saga was rather ironic, as the club re-entered the League in 1919 after Leeds City were expelled over illegal payments to their players.

[1] Harry Poole picked up an injury and 'the spell was broken' with a 2–1 defeat in Burslem to league leaders Bradford City.

[1] In November Vale again suffered, and more problems came as the Football League began an examination into the club's books over alleged breaches of rules in regard to payment of players.

[1] Back on the pitch, Roy Sproson made his 700th appearance in a 1–1 draw with Newport County at Somerton Park.

In January the League's investigation resulted in a Football Association commission to investigate six charges: numerous amateurs had received a weekly wage; associate schoolboys played for the club despite this being against the rules; extra bonuses were offered for reaching the Second Round of the League Cup; John Ritchie had received illegal payments; Clint Boulton and Gordon Logan had received illegal bonuses; and that young players had been given gifts in breach of league rules.

[1] Stan Steele returned from South Africa and joined on a month-long trial, however, he only managed to score an 'incredible' own goal by lobbing Stuart Sharratt in a 3–0 loss to Aldershot.

[1] The club's officials were 'shocked and appalled' at the 'savage penalties', and Stoke City chairman Albert Henshall also called the punishment 'severe'.

[1] Seven players were given free transfers, including youngsters Alex Donald and Malcolm MacKenzie; as well as club veterans Terry Miles and Harry Poole – who had almost thirty years and some 716 league appearances for the Vale between them.

[1] Developments at the club included the opening of Vale Shop at the Hamil End and the appointment of 'young... modern track-suited' Gordon Lee as manager.

In the League Cup, the "Valiants" reached the Second Round after a Mick Cullerton hat-trick in a 3–0 win over Chester at home.