David Artell pocketed his first point as Crewe Alex manager - but it could have been even better at Gresty Road on Saturday.

The Railwaymen produced their best performance for some time in a basement battle against Cheltenham Town, and created more than enough chances to take all three points.

Sub Alex Kiwomya struck a post and Charlie Kirk and Oliver Turton both went very close to making the difference as they dominated the play.

But a combination of lackluster finishing, bad luck and superb Cheltenham defending kept them at bay and Crewe had to settle for a point.

It means they have not won in 10 outings and have only two successes in the last 24, as they stay 19th in League Two.

Artell will, however, be pleased with the way his side adapted to a new formation.

Certainly a point gained, but is it also two lost?

I suppose it depends on whether you're a glass half full or half empty kind of guy or girl.

Ahead of the game the Robins would have felt quite confident of earning a win at Crewe.

They had swept the Alex aside in two of their three meetings so far this season, and in the other had easily held out with 10 men for the majority of the match.

This new-look, leaner, fitter and more mobile side had impressed with their performances in the four games leading up to this game and there was optimism.

The trip to Gresty Road kicked-off four – perhaps six – vital games that will shape the Robins' season.

What you can say with some certainty after the showing on Saturday is that an improvement is needed in the next five or it's going to be a nervy old time.