Saints draw a blank on the road as rivals find the net within each half

Sean Brady came close to breaking the deadlock in St Mary’s favour but Crewe claimed the only goal of the first half.

The Saints proved competitive after the interval, with Ruairi Feeney a threat.

However, Crewe capitalised on a defensive lapse to wrap up victory by a 2-0 margin.

“Crewe started well and certainly looked the better team across the first half,” said St Mary’s Gerry Fay. “We struggled in the first half but certainly looked better after the break.

“We created a few half-chances but could not get back into the match.

“Crewe had that edge overall and just proved too streetwise.

“They were quick up top and solid across the pitch but we can take confidence from how we improved over the second half of the game.”