Steve says derby game is perfect time to turn our season around

Crewe Alexandra boss Steve Davis says that tomorrow’s derby game against Port Vale could prove to be the perfect tonic to get the Alex going again. Crewe face our near neighbours in the first derby encounter of the season and although Micky Adams’ side come into the match in better form having won four of their last five games, Davis is expecting a positive response from his players.

Ahead of the local derby at Gresty Road, the Alex boss told crewealex.net: “The derby games against Port Vale are always the best two games of the season. They are the fixtures we always look for first when the fixtures come out.

“It is always special to get a good result from a personal point of view as a manager, player and for the supporters. We know what it means to everyone. We have a few local lads in the squad, so they know what it is all about.

“We haven’t given our supporters much to cheer about this season and I was extremely disappointed to have exited the FA Cup on Tuesday night and the manner of it.

“We want to give our supporters something to shout about and there is no better game to do that in than a local derby.

“We all hope that a positive result could change our form around. We know that two or three good results would see us half way the league table. The players know it will be tough but if we work hard, compete and perform then it can start to come right for us.

“It is time to show what we are made of. Port Vale have done well this season and adjusted well to the league. They have been similar to us last season where they have been promoted and the momentum has continued.

The boss added: “They have responded well when they have had their little set-backs. We haven’t been able to do that as well this season when we have suffered a defeat, so there is no bigger or better game to do that.”