David Artell says that conceding an avoidable goal from a corner cost his side all three points against Blackpool last night. Crewe Alexandra started the game on the front foot and really should have taken one of our chances before defender Dan Ballard headed home a corner four minutes before half-time.

Artell was left bitterly disappointed in the manner in which we conceded the opening goal at Bloomfield Road, but he was full of praise for his side’s character and resilience to hit back late on through sub Stephen Walker. It was no more than Crewe deserved against Neil Critchley’s side.

Artell told the club’s official website: “I thought we dominated the first half an hour and we really should have gone ahead before they scored. I thought we also had the last 15, 20 minutes, so overall we had 50 of the 90 minutes and the goal we got was deserved.

“I said to Critch that it was too evenly matched and competitive sides and although we are not entirely happy with a point we will accept it.

“We conceded from a corner and I was disappointed with that because that has cost us the three points. We have to be better there.

“I thought the subs made a different with their energy and they helped the team. We could have nicked it at the end but we didn’t and we have to take the positives from the way we started and ended the game.

He added: “I thought we controlled the second half much more, with less chances, but I couldn’t fault the character or the work ethic of the players. They are giving their all for this Football Club and trying their best and whilst they do that and I am sat in the hot seat, then I will praise, support and help them.”