Gradi hails memorable night

Luke Varney

DELIGHTED boss Dario Gradi felt a celebration was in order after masterminding arguably Crewe's greatest upset.

That sounds a little OTT when associated with Wigan Athletic but facts are facts, last season's beaten Carling Cup finalists with a generous bank balance have fallen at the first hurdle.

And the way the Alex took a Premiership side apart at times was ultra impressive.

The man himself wasn't getting too carried away but he admitted such a performance deserved toasting with a glass of vino.

"It turned out to be a memorable night. They missed a chance early on and they looked what they are, quality players," he said.

"We had trouble containing them and they were raining in crosses but gradually we got to the pace of the game and we started to look like we belonged there. Then we took it to them."

Awaiting Saturday's draw (1.30pm), Crewe will look for a record-breaking League Cup run after equalling their best by reaching the third round.

But with important trips to Yeovil and Swansea in quick succession, Gradi admitted he would rather have seen his side knocked out than suffer extra time.

"The last thing I wanted was extra time," he continued.

"I would rather have lost because the young boys are getting tired and finding it hard.

"I didn't think some of them would make it but they insisted they were fine.

"In the end it was a really good performance by all the players."

Luke Varney was one of many performers, notching two assists in another encouraging display.

"He's made great strides," explained Gradi.

"The penny seems to have dropped and I think he's cracked it.

"He won't go backwards now, to play like that against quality opposition suggests he's cracked it."

It all looked so bleak against Bradford a month ago, Crewe's new blood has inspired a quick upturn.

"Michael O'Connor and Gary Roberts have gone on, David Vaughan has just played the best two games he ever has for us," continued Gradi.

"Nicky's looking dangerous and Luke's come through.

"We've got some good players and good players make a good team.

"We're not getting carried away but they (Wigan) were better players than we'll meet week in, week out."