What the press made of our survival Preston victory
The Sentinel
Crewe boss Steve Davis says his side’s final-day escape has made up for a season of struggle at Gresty Road.
The Railwaymen’s form over a difficult campaign was hit by off-field problems, and their League One status remained in doubt until they clinched their first home win in eight games by seeing off promotion-seeking Preston.
As it was, Crewe would have stayed up regardless of their score after Tranmere fell to a late defeat at the hands of Bradford, but Davis was glad his side were in control of their own fate.
“It’s a magnificent achievement, and to do it ourselves and not rely on other teams was good,” said the Cheshire side’s manager.
Crewe Chronicle
IN time people may look back at the final League One standings for 2013-14 and wonder what all the fuss was about.
Four points and two places above the drop zone, it looks for all the world Crewe were fairly comfortable in avoiding the drop.
And it has to be said that, on Saturday, they were. They turned what could have been an excruciatingly anxiety-ridden occasion into a joyous one with a performance of consummate professionalism and nerveless application.
They had worked hard to ensure their destiny was in their own hands and they seized salvation in style.
But let it be remembered that this was a truly great escape.
Lancashire Evening Post
Simon Grayson admitted that Preston North End had been well below par during their defeat to Crewe Alexandra at Gresty Road on Saturday.
Goals from Adam Dugdale and Mathias Pogba gave the Railwaymen a two-goal lead before John Welsh struck a stoppage-time consolation.
The Lilywhites will now face Rotherham United in the play-off semi-final, with the first leg at Deepdale next Saturday (5.15pm) and the away leg on Thursday, May 15.
North End boss Grayson said: “I did think that Crewe played well, they were on the front foot and made it difficult for us.
“They did not look like a team who have conceded the most goals in the division.
“It was never going to be an easy game given what was riding on it.
“Crewe were fighting to stay in the division and they secured safety.