Crewe vs Morecambe Predictions

Morecambe’s ability to survive in the Football League over the past few seasons has defied the odds time and time again, and much of that success was largely down to the ability of manager Jim Bentley’s talent at getting the most out of his squad despite competing with probably the lowest budget in the league. However, the Shrimps now have to adapt to life without him and this weekend they make the trip to face a Crewe side who have been excellent in the opening months of the campaign.

It is hard to say what Crewe expected at the start of the campaign as, with a squad made up largely of their own academy players, they may have expected to struggle. However, the kids did alright and the hosts are currently in an excellent position in League Two and will be hoping they can use this as a base to kick on and win promotion.

Despite this positive start, Crewe have dipped in there last two outings as they suffered defeats against two in form sides. The hosts have still been impressive, however, and they have won nine of their 17 league games this term. The Alex have not come unstuck against the sides they have been expected to defeat as they have won all six of their contests to date against sides in the current bottom nine. They have one of the best offensive records in the division with 27 goals in their 17 matches and are just three points from top with a game in hand.

Morecambe will no doubt have a lot of adapting to do following the departure of boss Bentley to non league Fylde – a major blow as he has led them to survival against the odds for the last few years. The visitors are currently second from bottom and have one of the worst offensive records in the division with just 16 goals scored. Although they have scored in 78% of their away matches, they average just 0.89 goals per game in the league.

Despite the fact that Crewe have lost their last two matches, they appear to be much stronger and there only looks like one winner in this contest. Their recent dip should be countered by the fact that they are coming up against a Morecambe side who have just two out of nine clean sheets away from home this season so the hosts should be able to find their shooting boots once again. When you also consider that Morecambe have lost five of their last seven away matches, it is clear that backing Crewe to win is the way to go.

However, for those of you who back the correct score tips, the fact that Morecambe have  scored in 78% of their away matches is a worry. When you factor in that Crewe have only kept two clean sheets at home, then keeping their visitors at bay appears unlikely. Considering that the hosts have one of the best offensive records in League Two, and Morecambe have lost three away games 3-1 this season, then backing another 3-1 home win is the option we are going with.