STEVE Davis wants more from his forwards as Crewe look to return to winning ways at Oldham on Saturday.

The Alex boss has demanded improvement after seeing his side blow an interval lead at promotion-chasing Tranmere.

Travelling supporters looked set for some festive cheer on Boxing Day when Brad Inman smashed Lauri Dalla Valle’s assist into the top corner on 12 minutes.

Replacing the ill Alan Martin, keeper Steve Phillips denied Zoumana Bakayogo before the hosts turned tables with two goals in five minutes.

Adam McGurk (58) headed a leveller from Andy Robinson’s cross and Max Power’s (63) stunning drive secured all the points.

“I didn’t think we played well enough to win but perhaps we were unfortunate to lose,” said Davis.

“There wasn’t much in it in the first-half, it was a game of few chances and we took the lead through Brad in what was our first real attack.

“We were defending well and I don’t recall Steve having to make too many saves.

“I thought we were comfortable.

“The shape was good but we weren’t holding the ball up well enough or creating chances ourselves.

“I wanted the players to be on the front foot in the second-half but we didn’t start well and Tranmere were much better.

“We needed more from our forward players.

“They were not proactive enough and we can do better that that.”

Davis hauled off Mathias Pogba and Dalla Valle with twenty minutes to go and could freshen things up for Boundary Park.

Both Max Clayton and Byron Moore may start as Crewe look to inflict a fourth straight defeat on Oldham.

“Lauri hit one into the side netting when he should have squared it,” continued Davis.

“Max also should have got his head onto one of the crosses going in.

Kelvin Mellor is also in the reckoning after making the bench at Tranmere while Ajay Leitch-Smith may also get a cameo.

“Kelvin isn’t quite match fit but he’s looking stronger each day,” added Davis.

“Ajay will take a little bit longer, mainly because he has been out for such a long time.

“We’ll ease him in and if that means putting him on the bench and using him as an impact player, he can do that.

“He can change a game.”

Crewe kick off 2013 at home to Carlisle on New Year’s Day (Tuesday).