Pickering scores twice and Dale as Crewe defeat Bristol City.

Harry Pickering (2) and Owen Dale were on target at the Alexandra Stadium as Alex Morris’ Under-21s ended their season with a fine 3-1 win over Wade Elliott’s Bristol City side.

After a goalless first half, Crewe Alexandra had to come from behind after falling behind to a goal from Tom Fry after he beat Dave Richards to a through ball from Connor Evans. Fry just got a touch on it to divert it past the onrushing Crewe goalkeeper.

Crewe Alexandra responded superbly to the early set-back in the second half and levelled via the penalty spot through the impressive Pickering. The left back won the penalty after he flicked the ball up and Lloyd Kelly handled it to prevent his progress. Pickering confidently put Max O’Leary the wrong way.

Crewe then took the lead after the pacey Owen Dale was bundled over by Kelly inside the area and the recently signed pro picked himself up to powerfully drive his shot past O’Leary for 2-1.

In a game of penalty kicks, referee Daniel Issawi then awarded the visitors a penalty after trialist Shaun Hobson was adjudged to have fouled Evans close to the by-line. It looked a soft award but Richards stood tall to save Evans’ effort.

Crewe stretched their advantage with a fine move. Substitute Fraser Murdoch, who has suffered terribly with injuries over the last two years, held up possession to find Joe Kearns and his dangerous cross into the six-yard box was nodded home at close range by Pickering after Daniel Udoh had just missed it.