David Artell was pleased with the performance of the Under-23s as they defeated Bristol City 2-1 at Reaseheath yesterday. Owen Dale, who recently made his first team debut and Charlie Kirk scored the goals as Alex Morris’ Development Squad recorded their second win of the new season.

Artell says that impressing for the U-23s only enhances the players’ chances of begin involved in his first team squad.

The Crewe boss said: “They all played very well. They were good. The only criticism I would have had is that tey should have been out of sight before Bristol equalised. They created a lot of good opportunities and were probably not clinical enough.

“After Bristol drew level and had their little spell in the game, they hung in there and came through it.

“Sam (Stubbs) was very good. For a young lad he looks very assured. Owen and Charlie got on the score sheet and Harry Pickering and Josh Lundstram were good.

“Young Ollie Harrison at centre-half was excellent and showed what he could do. I thought good on you. Now he will go back to the U-18s and he has got to be the best player there again, but we get another go because he proved he can do it.”

He added: “Every time they train or play in those games is a chance for them to impress. “