Not even the most ardent Crewe Alexandra fan would have realistically thought that their side would sit at the top of League Two after 15 games, a point ahead of Exeter City in second place with a game in hand as well.
They have been well-renowned for a number of years at producing their own young talents and this season is no different, with many of their first-team regulars graduates of the famous academy.
In this tactical analysis, we will analyse the tactics implemented at Gresty Road that has shot them to the top end of the fourth tier, and use our scout report to look at how they have been able to prove themselves as one of the most efficient, dangerous teams in the division.
Defensive structure
Starting with their shape when out of possession, manager David Artell looks to set his team up in a 4-5-1 with the aim of frustrating their opponents through prevention of space and time on the ball. It is clear to see that all of the players know their role in the system a fact that will come up later when we analyse their offensive tactics and deliver upon these requirements to a tee. Their usual central midfield three of Ryan Wintle, Paul Green and Tom Lowery are crucial in their team’s ability to aggressively press opponents without losing structure within their system and shape. The energetic trio are relentless in their will to close down opponents, whilst also remaining tactically disciplined enough to ensure that they do not come out of their shape and thus expose the whole team through a systemic breakdown as a result.
Additionally, as a whole they try to be difficult to be passed through, remaining narrow and compact in midfield through the hope of trying to force opponents wide as opposed to being able to play through them centrally. Their shape can be seen in the two examples below.
In the first graphic it is clear not to see not just their five in midfield, but also their aim of trying to make opponents play around them as opposed to through them. Winger Callum Ainley is the widest player within the five, yet he is still inside of the man on the ball, meaning that the clear option for a pass is outside of him, and around Crewe’s block. The fact that Ainley is situated inside of the man on the ball means that it would be difficult for the player to play a pass in-field anyway, as passing lanes are being blocked off and there are also a plethora of Alex players inside ready to press any pass into this area.
In the following illustration, Lowery’s energy can be witnessed through his single press of the Swindon player in possession, however yet again this is still within the overall structure of the team. Additionally, wide man Owen Dale is also very narrow to Lowery’s right, again with the aim of trying to prevent the Robins’ man playing a line-breaking pass through their midfield and exposing their defenders.
