Goddard: Crewe FC must cut out defensive mistakes (From Crewe Guardian)

Goddard: Crewe FC must cut out defensive mistakes

10:00am Thursday 28th February 2013 in Sport

CREWE FC must reverse their defensive decline if they are to achieve their target of a top seven finish, says assistant manager Luke Goddard.

Having built one of the best defensive records in the Cheshire Football Division One during the first half of the season, when they conceded just 16 goals in 15 games, a recent dip in form at the back has seen them ship nine in the last two matches.

Letting four first half goals in during the 4-3 defeat to mid-table rivals Gamesley was a particular sore spot with Crewe's assistant manager.

"We must now cut out these mistakes, which to be fair haven't happened too much this season," said Goddard.

"Conceding nine in the last two games is quite clearly not good enough, though, and we were left deeply frustrated with the result after playing very well and scoring three excellent first half goals.

"Unlike last week, where we were outplayed by the impressive Knutsford, we were the masters of our own downfall with both Anthony Tinsley and Wesley Newton gifting them four goals with individual mistakes.

"Our slight change in shape in midfield and a number of changes from the previous game worked to plan and helped us play the way we are looking to play, but we cant predict for so many individual errors."

Crewe will look to recover in time to host second-place Whaley Bridge at the Cumberland Arena on Saturday, kick off 3pm, but there were signs in last week's high-scoring defeat to give Crewe some hope against a side who have won only one of their last four games.

"Both Nathan Tickle and the returning PJ Hudson both stood out offensively against Gamesley and helped us gain more control further up the field," said Goddard.

"I will be looking for character and more concentration from the lads this week, as we take on a tough-looking Whaley Bridge.

"It is a must win game if we want to make sure we finish the season on a high and meet our realistic target of a top seven finish."