Steve Davis says his players can use play-off experience to reach Wembley again

Steve Davis says his Crewe Alexandra side are looking forward to tomorrow night’s intriguing clash with Coventry City in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy. Although the Alex are being dubbed the underdogs to get through to the Wembley Final, Davis says the experience of playing over two-legs in last season’s play-offs will only help.

Crewe had to negotiate a tricky two-legged affair against Southend United last season, winning the first game 1-0 at Gresty Road and drawing 2-2 at Roots Hall.

Steve told the club’s official web-site: “The players are looking forward to the game. It will be a tough game because Coventry are a good side and have good players. I’ve had a look at the form guide and we are very similar over the last six games or so.

“They had a good win at Sheffield United on Friday night and we won our game as well, so that is a positive to take into the game. We are both going into it with some confidence and on the back of wins.

“They will have a big crowd there but we will take a number of supporters as well and they will be behind us. I’m sure playing in that type of atmosphere will only spur us on. We will try and keep it tight but we are going there to win the game. The players will be looking to enjoy the occasion and the reward over two legs is a chance to play at Wembley.

Steve added: “The players were talking after the play-off final that they would love to play there again one day and they are lucky to have the chance to do it again only a few months later. It will be a massive challenge but we came through the play-offs last season and the players can handle it.”