David Artell says that the most pleasing aspect of Saturday’s away win at Newport County was that it was not a typical Crewe performance. The Railwaymen deservedly held on for a 2-1 win with some superb defending to defuse the home side’s growing momentum in the closing stages following their goal with just ten minutes remaining.

Goals from Harry McKirdy and Jordan Bowery secured back-to-back wins for the Alex for the first time since August.

The Crewe boss said: “The pleasing thing about the performance and result on Saturday was that it was a non-Crewe performance. Members of their backroom staff were saying afterwards that they expected us to move the ball quickly but they said that is the best they have seen us do the other side of the game.

“They were impressed with our defending, how we headed things out and our game management was good. Towards the end of the game, Jordan kept the ball in the corner and won three throw-ins. Those little things kill the game. They stop the momentum of the opposition.

“It was nice to get those compliments and we were pleased because it was a really mature and professional performance from us.”