CREWE FC triumphed in the Presidents Cup but saw their survival hopes take a massive blow with defeat at Linotype.

Ian O'Reilly's boys were on a high with victories over Golborne and Glossop although three games in only five days eventually took its toll last Saturday.

In danger themselves, Linotype edged a tense game of few chances with a 24th minute strike that leaves Crewe FC rooted in the bottom two of MCL Division One.

Steve Parker and Danny Brazendale missed decent chances either side of half time as the visitors looked jaded.

"It was disappointing after such a good week with two wins," explained the boss.

"The lads looked tired and it showed.

"But there are still 15 points to play for and that's a lot.

"We must respond.

"We can't give up until its mathematically impossible, I won't.

"It's a tall order but we've got to go and give it our best."

The 1-0 defeat leaves them eight points adrift with two games in hand on struggling Daten; a big low less than 48 hours after lifting the Presidents Cup.

Gareth Brooks gave them a 1-0 interval lead over Glossop, burying Jon Dawson's cross in front of fans at neutral territory Trafford.

Danny Athorn drilled home a loose corner to cap Crewe's dominance only for a wonder goal to set up a tense finale.

"Any cup win is nice," added O'Reilly.

"We had a fair few supporters who travelled down to see us and we appreciate it.

"We've got another cup final now on Saturday but it's the league that's the priority."

Crewe travel to Nantwich Town to face Alsager in the Crewe Cup Final, this Saturday (KO 2pm).

They are due at Bollington on Monday and entertain Padgate on Wednesday (KO 6.30pm).