The Youths Battle On

The likes of Kyle Wilson, Gary Roberts, Michael O'Connor and Owain Fon Williams have led the youth team to the semi-final of the Youth Cup, which is Crewe's bext ever run in the Cup. It beats the teams with the likes of Ashton, Rix, Vaughan and Bell in it, or with Hulse, or with Murphy and Johnson, Crewe have alot to be proud of in the academy ranks and whilst the critics will say them days are dying for small clubs like us - it goes to show that the days are reaching a peak.

It's been a long hard fought road to the semi's. It started in October with a 3rd Round win over Brentfords youngsters, Cirencester in the 4th round nearly provided a shock as they equalised after 90 minute and it took 12 penalties to seperate the two teams with Crewe coming out on top 5-6. Swindon in the quarter finals was the easiest yet with Howard, Maynard and Wilson brushing them aside.

March 18th saw Crewe's academy feature for the first time in a FA Youth Cup semi, two goals either half time saw Middlesbrough worthy winners in the first leg but with their team consisting of 7 or 8 internationals it was a hard game for the Alex.

The team travel to Middlesbrough's Riverside Stadium tonight with a full strength team, with only Billy Jones out on first team duty. They must over turn two away goals meaning the first goal in the clash will be crucial, Crewe get it and it's all there to fight for but if Middlesbrough get it, it'll be hard for Crewe to get back with a look it.

Up for stake is a final against Aston Villa's academy who over came Blackburn this month, 4-2. Whatever happens tonight it's still a mighty sucess for the team and a fantastic achievement by the youngsters.

Kick off is at 7pm, full coverage on Radio Stoke.