Players given some minutes in practice run-out ar Wigan.

David Artell was pleased with the run-out his squad enjoyed in a behind closed doors run-out against Wigan Athletic on Saturday. Both clubs used the fixture to give the majority of their squads a run-out in a practice game at Wigan’s impressive Exton training complex.

The practice game ended 3-3 with new signing Chris Porter, Callum Ainley and Josh Lundstram on target for the Railwaymen. Our former player Ryan Colclough was also on target for the Latics.

The Crewe Alexandra manager said to Crewealex.net: “It was a terrific game and a great workout for the players. Wigan were in the Championship last season and they were excellent in the first 20 minutes. They really came out at us and made it difficult.

“It was a really good test for us and we had to work hard to get ourselves in the game. The lads did great against a tough opponent; we scored some good goals and came through injury free which always helps.

“It was good for the fitness. Some played 45 minutes, some got 75 minutes under their belts but no-one played 90 minutes. It was a good afternoon and we learned some things.

The boss added: “We conceded three goals, but we know we are capable of that. There will be plenty of work done on our defending that’s for sure, but we look in decent shape.”