Striker's form in front of goal has been crucial in run-in

Steve Davis has praised his in-form striker Lauri Dalla Valle as his recent form have helped Crewe Alexandra break that 50 point barrier. The Finn has scored four goals in the last eight games and those vital finishes has seen pick up valuable points in each of those fixtures.

The former Liverpool trainee was in the right place at the right time to open the scoring against Coventry last weekend in a 3-1 win and the Crewe boss is convinced that we are now seeing Dalla Valle at the peak of his fitness.

Steve told the club’s official web-site: “Lauri was in the right place again at Coventry. It was a real poachers’ goal and strikers will tell you that they are enjoy those types of goals the most. Those types of goals are all about being in there inside the six yard boxes and having that desire to get it over the line.

“Lauri was in there looking for a pull back or a rebound and got his reward. He deserved his goal and he has scored some important goal of late for us. When he first came here he had some niggling injuries and that set him back but he is a naturally fit lad and once he was over those muscle problems he has always given 100% and given everything.

He added: “I was delighted that the three forwards all scored at Coventry but we also have other players in the squad who are capable of scoring goals. Nicky (Ajose) is our top scorer and Uche and George have chipped in with goals, so we have options.”