James Collins' Development squad reach final after 4-0 win in Cardiff
Crewe Alexandra's Under-21 side have reached the Professional Development League Two Final after an emphatic 4-0 victory over Cardiff City. The Crewe youngsters will now face Queens Park Rangers in the one-off final after they overcame Huddersfield in their semi-final.
First half goals from AJ Leitch-Smith and the club's leading goalscorer at Under-21 level Billy Waters put the Crewe youngsters firmly in the driving seat. Although defender George Ray was sent off with just over 25 minutes left on the clock at the City of Cardiff Stadium, further goals from full-back James Ballie and Birger Melling sealed an impressive victory for James Collins's side.
Collins named experienced goalkeeper Steve Phillips, and first team squad members Oliver Turton, Leitch-Smith, Billy Waters and Vadaine Oliver in his starting line-up. The returning Max Clayton played 67 minutes before being replaced by Perry Ng with 20 minutes remaining.
Congratulations to all the players for reaching the final after a successful season at the Elite Development level.