Alex boss a happy man after JPT win

Boss Steve Davis was left a happy man after Crewe Alexandra made it through to the Area Quarter Finals of the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy after a 2-1 win over Shrewsbury Town at the Greenhous Meadow.

A goal in each half from Luke Murphy and Max Clayton put the Alex in control, and while a mistake from Alan Martin let the home side back in to the game, Crewe dug in to make it through.

Steve told crewealex.net: "I am delighted. I thought we controlled the first-half and caused them some real problems. Before the game I spoke with Neil and we decided to juggle the front four around, and they were a constant menace.

"The front four haven’t really been firing over the last few games, and it is how we get the best of them. Max and Ajay can both play on the wings, so decided to try that. It worked for us today, because we caused them all sorts of problems.

"We got a good start through Murph. He is showing real consistency in his performances. He is going out and dictating games. It was a good finish from him and he has also hit the bar too.

"That goal will help Max because he has been getting a little anxious. He has been trying very hard, in fact maybe a little too hard. Me, Dario and Bakes have pulled him to one side and encouraged him to play his natural game. If he does that the goals will come and I am pleased for him to get a goal tonight because that will do him good.

"Alan has made a mistake, but everyone is going to make mistakes. He has won us points earlier in the season, so we can forgive him for that. What really pleased me was the way we defended after that, I think the boys showed real determination to hang on to the result, and I think they maybe did it for Alan."