Technical director Dario Gradi praised Crewe's spirit and resolve after the thrilling 4-3 win over Tranmere at Gretsy Road on Tuesday.Tranmere, who had Ian Goodison sent off in the 64th minute after a rash challenge on Ryan Lowe, took the lead through Andrew Taylor before Gary Roberts netted the first of his brace from the penalty spot.

Chris Greenacre restored Tranmere's lead, but Crewe hit back through Roberts again and Nicky Maynard and although Paul McLaren restored parity, Danny O'Donnell's last-gasp header settled matters.

Gradi said: "I feel both joy and relief to get a win. I looked at my watch after 17 minutes gone it could have been 3-3.

"I thought it was going to be one of those unlucky days and we were making silly mistakes and missing chances.

"But the boys were good at half-time and they were encouraging each other and you could see they had a good spirit."

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