INEXPERIENCE may have proved costly in Crewe FC's 2-0 defeat at Linotype on Saturday.

But boss Ian O'Reilly knows with results now unlikely to cost them their place in Mid Cheshire Division One, the time is right to blood new players.

His hand was forced though on this occasion with nine first-team regulars missing through injuries or unavailability.

The home side capitalised on the game's first real opportunity, burying a 25-yard free-kick on the half-hour mark.

Dennis Peak almost found an equaliser just before the break with a great effort only denied by a fine save from Linotype's number one.

Few chances arose out of a gritty midfield battle throughout the second-half but Linotype took one to seal victory on 72 minutes.

Crewe went for it in the late stages but both Brazendale and Peak were thwarted by more good work from the home keeper.

"I'm not too disappointed," said O'Reilly. "We gave Carl Palin and Liam Reilly debuts along with Christian Batch off the bench and they all did well.

"We said we'd give players a chance and that's what we'll do. The experience will come in time."

Crewe FC entertain high-flying Cheadle this Saturday before travelling to Trafford, on Tuesday night.

Kick off at the Cumberland Sports Ground is at 3pm.