Experimental Crewe Alex side held to draw at Leek Town

Assistant Boss Neil Baker was content with the performance of the Crewe Alexandra youngsters as the mix-and-match side was held to a 1-1 draw at non-league Leek Town.

Vadaine Oliver gave the Railwaymen the lead with an unstoppable 35-yarder in the first half before Leek debutant Liam Shotton levelled it up after the break.

Baker knows Leek well. Currently a director at Leek Town, he knew the Alex would face a tough test against strong opposition, but he’s delighted with the how pre-season is progressing.

“Leek are a good side.” Said Baker. “I watch them now and then and I know a lot of the players. They were unlucky not to get promoted last season.

“We thought it was going to be a good test for our young team and once again it proved it was.

“The young lads did fine. We had a lot of the ball, a lot of possession but we weren’t as dangerous as we’d have liked.

“For a lot of them, this would have been their toughest game. They’ve come out of U18’s football to know face up against men and they have to learn quickly.

“We’re delighted with the fitness of the group this time, they’re further ahead than they were last year. The fitness coaches have planned a really good programme and we’re where we should be.”