Artell’s full of cheer after Alex late show

CREWE boss David Artell hailed his players after they survived a Carlisle comeback to hit their hosts with two late sucker punches and secure top spot in the table.

The Railwaymen cruised into a two-goal half-time lead, through Nicky Hunt and Daniel Powell, then surrender the advantage as Carlisle hit back to draw level through Hallam Hope and Christie Elliot.

However, a strike from Chris Porter and a Gethin Jones own-goal put the visitors back in control.

Artell admitted: “We found a way where we might not have been able to do last season. The players showed steel and resilience.

“It was a good performance for a large part, but we stopped playing for 20 minutes and they scored twice.”

Artell has assembled a team containing a healthy number of youngsters who have come up through the Alex academy and he said: “I see myself as a teacher and facilitator and a career builder. It feels good to be top – better top than bottom, that’s for sure.”

Crewe started like a house on fire with a seventh-minute goal from veteran Hunt, who finished off a Tommy Lowery free-kick.

Carlisle were caught in possession in the visitors’ half for the second goal after 27 minutes. Daniel Powell was able to race away before arrowing a superb drive across Adam Collin.

Carlisle were a different side after the break. Left-back Jack Iredale had a big hand in both their goals, the first a cross which Hope slid home, the second another great delivery across the six-yard line which Elliott volleyed past Dave Richards.

Alex nerves were steadied when Porter notched from close range and, 12 minutes from time, Perry Ng’s looping cross was helped into his own net by Jones. Carlisle manager Steven Pressley remained upbeat despite the result. He said: “It will take time, perseverance and character. The fans can vent their anger at me. I accept the responsibility, but this group of players will in time come up with the answers.

“We were a yard short and not aggressive enough in pressing. We were more aggressive after half-time and I’m disappointed we didn’t go on to win.”