Nicky Maynard’s double ensured that Crewe continued their recent run of good form as they beat Huddersfield 2-0. Rodney Jack made his first start since returning to the club in the place of international absentee David Vaughan, whilst Danny O’Donnell was surprisingly selected ahead of Ryan Lowe in a 4-3-2-1 formation.
Huddersfield began the game well, enjoying time on the ball at the back with midfielder Danny Schofield handed the task of breaking down Crewe’s definite shape. However, Huddersfield failed to build on their good start, and soon Crewe began to dominate proceedings. Julien Baudet shot just over after his initial free kick fell kindly having hit the wall, whilst Luke Varney had two presentable chances.
Against the run of play, however, Huddersfield should have scored just before the 30 minute mark. Andy Booth was left unmarked at the back post but his volley was wayward when he should have done better. Just minutes later, the ball fell to Booth in the box, but once again, Booth failed to convert as he shot straight at the grateful Williams.
However, Crewe also came close to scoring via Billy Jones. Michael O’Connor fizzed a free kick across to the back-post, but Billy Jones failed to get his head on it from 6 yards. Gary Roberts’ driving run into the box wasn’t given the reward it deserved as a last ditch tackle from Mirfin denied him a shooting opportunity.
Crewe eventually got the goal they deserved through Nicky Maynard. Luke Varney was brought down in the box, but whilst the entire ground was focusing on the referee, Maynard had other ideas as he latched onto the loose ball to give Crewe the lead at half time.
Crewe began the second half as they ended the second, with Billy Jones going close within minutes of the restart. However, Jon Otsemobor soured the mood with a dreadful dive just minutes later. There had been absolutely no contact whatsoever and there was no need for the ex-Liverpool man to go down.
Crewe extended their lead just after the 50 minute mark as the Varney/Maynard partnership once again paid dividends. Varney’s header found Maynard 30 yards out, who proceeded to stumble his way through a challenge from Mirfin, and prodded past Glennon to extend Crewe’s lead.
Crewe could’ve had a third as Luke Varney was put through by Gary Roberts but Glennon’s foot denied the pacey striker a much-deserved goal. Huddersfield mustered late pressure but none of Beckett, Abbott, Booth or Taylor-Fletcher could find the net, though Beckett came mighty close.
Jon Otsemobor nearly provided Crewe with a magical third in the closing stages. Following a direct run from the half way line, Semmy dinked the ball back across the goal with a cross/shot which was very nearly converted by the eager Luke Varney.
However, Crewe settled for two goals in the end in what was an excellent performance against one of the division’s more fancied teams. Huddersfield are usually a good side, so praise should go to the Crewe players who made them look ordinary. Dario’s tactics were also spot on, as he deployed a 3-4-2-1 to combat Huddersfield’s front line.
Player Ratings
Ben Williams 6
A decent performance from Williams who dealt with the conditions well. Booth’s first half shot was straight at Williams, but it was a crucial save nonetheless. However, improvements are still required to extinguish hopes of a new goalkeeper being brought in on loan.
Jon Otsemobor 6
Otsemobor’s performance lacked direction in his wing back role. The team seemed to understand what was required of them very well, but Otsemobor was somewhat an exception to that. A good late run showed promise, but improvements are required from the talented youngster.
Billy Jones 7
Billy seems to have recovered from his dodgy early season form as he turned in a performance displaying defensive solidarity and attacking intent.
Julien Baudet 6
Baudet failed to build upon his excellent performance against Brighton as he endured a mixed game. Baudet did do some good things, and remains considered as a good signing, but there were a few too many slips and mishaps in this 90 minutes for my liking.
Neil Cox 8
Cox’s composure and reading of the game set him apart from Crewe’s other defenders. Cox was a constant playmaker at the back, whilst his reading of the game ensured Crewe dealt with any balls over the top.
Danny O’Donnell 7
O’Donnell had a good game and looked particularly useful in the air. Didn’t really put a foot wrong all afternoon.
Gary Roberts 7
Roberts joined in well with the attacks whilst working exceptionally hard as always. Crewe’s formation placed huge importance on the performance of Crewe’s two young central midfielders, and Roberts passed the test.
Michael O’Connor 9
If Roberts passed the test, O’Connor set the standard. O’Connor was exceptional in midfield, both defending and attacking impressively. O’Connor’s decision making was mature, his passing was precise and his driving runs were inspirational.
Rodney Jack 7
A good return to Gresty Road from the 33-year old. Rodney’s touch was impressive, whilst he showed a willingness to run at defenders and beat his man. However, perhaps the most impressive aspect of Rodney’s game was his tracking back. Rodney tracked the Huddersfield right back consistently, and ensured Crewe’s shape remained solid.
Luke Varney 8
Varney’s all round performance was probably the best he’s had for the club in the target man role. Whilst he won his fair share of headers against Brighton, they lacked direction, though he managed to add accuracy and precision to his headers on Saturday. Varney’s pace was a very useful asset, though his finishing lets him down.
Nicky Maynard 8
Maynard was excellent once again, as he took his goals superbly. Maynard was involved in the build up for the first, displaying an excellent touch and great awareness to latch onto the loose ball, whilst he showed predatory instincts for his second – poking home when the chance seemed gone.
SUB: Ryan Lowe 7
Lowe was unlucky to be left out of the starting line up after performing well against Brighton. Lowe showed good responsibility and determination when he came on, as he helped Crewe to hold onto the lead.
Rodgers didn’t get much of a chance during the 15 minutes, but needs to be making chances for himself if he is to displace Nicky Maynard. Rodgers’ movement and guile appears to have deserted him.