Ahead of tomorrow's match between Crewe Alexandra's under 18 and their counterparts at Manchester United here at the Alexandra Stadium, Assistant Academy Manager Neil Critchley has expressed his delight in taking charge of a game here at Gresty Road.
Critch, and his fellow Academy Manager James Collins, haven't had much of a chance to take charge of a game at the Alexandra Stadium, and although he knows what a test the game is going to be, Neil is still looking forward to it, as are the team themselves.
Critch told Crewe Alex Player: "It is a great opportunity for the boys. You look forward to these games anyway, but some of the boys won't have had the chance to play on the first team pitch before.
"Playing against a team like that, on a pitch like that in front of MUTV it doesn't get much better for them really. It gives them a chance to experience what could be ahead of them if they go on to make it as a professional. It will be a fantastic experience and United test your decision making, your awareness of the game and give you problems all the time. We have to counter that but we will play our football as well."
Crewe Alexandra's under 18's have had a fantastic season performance wise, every week their spirit and application improving and it looks set to be a good game of football from both sides. The youngsters might be looking forward to the game, but Critch is looking forward to it too given the circumstances around it and his role as their coach.
He says: "I'm looking forward to it, and why not. I haven't had the chance to take the team at Crewe like this before, it would be wrong not to look forward to it. I'm testing myself against Manchester United as well, I am there to help them win the game. It's a great opportunity for everyone."
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Supporters are welcome to come along and watch the match with prices £2 for adults and £1 for concessions and kick off time 11am.
