Vale stayed second thanks to a goal by Omar Daley of Bradford City, who sank Bury at Gigg Lane.
Meanwhile at Burton, Vale were by far the better side, but couldn't break down Paul Peschisolido's Staffordshire rivals.
Despite being surrounded by defenders, Justin Richards fired over, and then Marc Richards' long-range drive was tipped over.
Further chances for Marc Richards and debut-boy Jake Speight were saved by keeper Adam Legzdins. They should have sank them, as there were even fewer chances in the second half.
Burton were weak with little effort in front of goal, and Vale will see this as 2 points lost.
Thank goodness for Omar Daley.