ANOTHER BLOW FOR ALEX

Crewe Alex...0 Exeter...1

Crewe Alexandra's near critical condition in the Fourth Division took a turn for the worse last night, as they crashed to their third successive home defeat, writes Chris Stone. As much of a blow as the result was the loss of midfield player Geoff Thomas in the 57th minute. after a collision with fellow defender Dave Pullar. Thomas was taken to hospital with a broken jaw and is likely to be out of the side for much of the rest of the season. The only bit of good fortune that went Crew way was a dubious penalty decision in the 15th minute and even then they could not take advantage. They were awarded the spot-kick when David Platt went flying over from Keith Viney's tackle in the area. but Peter Farrell's penalty-kick was stopped by keeper John Shaw as he dived to his right. Shaw went on to make a number of brilliant saves to keep row out, but the home side's frustration was not only due to the Exeter keeper's performance. Crewe have not won for almost two months and their poor run has sapped their confidence. Some of the young players are struggling to find their form. "The crowd were very sympathetic towards the players, but they expect better," said Manager Dario Gradi. "They pay their money and expect to see us win some games. Some players have lost confidence and the only way to get it back is by getting goals."

Top-scorer Dave Waller went close to getting an opener for Crew just after half-time, but Shaw produced a magnificent save to tip a fierce drive over the bar. Five minutes after Thomas had gone off. Exeter snatched their winner. Jim McNichol sent the ball forward to Martin Ling, who rounded keeper Brian Parkin on the edge of the area, then rolled the ball into the corner of the net. Once in front, hard-working Exeter were determined to hang on for their first away win of the senson in the League. They have been one of the form sides of the division in recent weeks, but it took some great keeping from Shaw to ensure their win. Late in the game he tipped over an effort from Platt and also managed to palm away a shot from Levi Edwards.

Crewe Alexandra
Parkin; Johnson, Pullar, Thomas, Davis, Callaghan, Platt, Edwards, Waller, Farrell, Saunders. Substitute, Pemberton for Thomas, 57min).

Exeter City 
Shaw, Harrower, Viney, McNichol, Impey, McCaf lery, Ling, Jackson, Kellow, Keogh, Crawford. Substitute, Pratt (for Kellow, withdrawn, (min.)

Referee: Mr. Arthur Robinson, of Radcliffe.

Attendance: 1,108.

PF