‘They are showing a side to a Crewe team we haven’t seen for a long time’.

That was the verdict of Manager Lee Bell after he watched his side inflict a first home defeat of the season on Mansfield Town.

Joe White’s super second-minute strike proved the difference, but the overall performance was another sparkling example of Crewe Alexandra’s team spirit, resilience and fortitude under pressure.

They defended countless balls rained into the penalty area as Nigel Clough’s men searched for a leveller. Bodies were thrown on the line and every sinew stretched.

Afterwards, Bell said: “It was a really hard-fought three points. We had to ride our luck at times but I don’t think we gave them really clear-cut opportunities.

“The last time they lost at home was April so it’s a fantastic three points. The players carried out the instructions to a tee.

“The effort and desire were frightening – ‘fire’ and ‘desire’ are the words I’ve been using. For me, Mansfield are the best team in the league, but we defended brilliantly.  

“We have a way we want to play and we try to implement it, but if you want to achieve anything you have to show another side.”

The Railwaymen were backed by almost 500 away supporters at One Call Stadium. They never stopped singing all afternoon.

Bell added: “The fans were absolutely brilliant. They never stopped singing. This is probably the hardest place in the division to come and pick anything up and I suppose half of them would have taken a point beforehand.

“But we were hungry for more and I hope they enjoyed their evening.”