Shoot-out victory at Charlton as youngsters reach development final
Crewe Alexandra’s Under-18s have joined the club’s Under-21 side by reaching the final of the Professional Development League Two following a penalty victory over Charlton Athletic. The Crewe youngsters were all successful in a penalty shoot-out their place in the final against Huddersfield Town after a thrilling semi-final had ended 2-2.
Crewe captain James Jones gave Crewe the lead via the penalty spot just before half-time but then had full-back James Ballie sent off on 52 minutes for preventing a goal scoring opportunity with his arm. Charlton’s Karl Ahearne-Grant converted from the spot to level things up.
minute following his second yellow card.
thDespite having a man less, the Crewe youngsters managed to contain the home side and take the tie into extra-time. Ahearne-Grant put Charlton into the lead for the first time after bundling home a rebound from close range before Charlton defender Jose Gomez was sent-off in the 110
Crewe levelled things up with a well struck shot from Perry Ng that gave Charlton goalkeeper Dillon Phillips no chance.
The match had to be decided by a penalty shoot-out and although Joe Kearns missed his, the Crewe youngsters progressed after sudden death.