U23 | Crewe Alexandra 1-0 Cardiff City
Cardiff City’s U23 side narrowly lost at Crewe Alexandra U23 in the Professional Development League at Alexandra Park on Sunday afternoon.
Offrande Zanzala's second-half penalty proved to be the difference between the sides.
Steve Morison made two changes from last time out as Tavio D'Almeida and Jack Bodenham started.
The hosts had the game’s opening opportunity after four minutes. Regan Griffiths’ corner was cleared as far as Tyreece Onyeka, who struck the crossbar from just outside the area.
City responded by coming close six minutes later. Ben Margetson’s cross from the right flank found Roland Idowu, but the forward’s shot was saved by David Richards.
Despite attacking pressure from both teams, neither could get an effort on target for the remainder of the first-half.
After the interval, it took seconds for the determined Bluebirds to near an opener. Isaak Davies utilised his pace to enter the right side of the box, before unleashing a shot that rose just over the goal.
George Ratcliffe was called into action with 55 minutes played. Striker Zanzala’s low drive from the area’s edge was saved well by the goalkeeper.
Dangerman Davies troubled goalkeeper Richards 15 minutes later. Dan Martin’s low cross from the left wing found the forward’s foot which directed the ball on target, but it was kept out.
With nine minutes of the 90 remaining, Crewe Alexandra were awarded a penalty. Frontman Zanzala stepped up and found the bottom corner.
Despite Cardiff City’s efforts, no further opportunities arose and the home side took three points.
U23 FINAL SCORE: CREWE ALEXANDRA 1-0 CARDIFF CITY
Cardiff City U23: Ratcliffe, Margetson, Martin, D’Almeida, Denham, Bodenham, Davies (McWilliams 80’), Pritchard, Zimba, Idowu (Colwill 46’), Evans. Subs not used: King, Yanko.
