ALEX supremo Dario Gradi has blasted referee Eddie Wolstenholme for not having control of Monday night's clash with the Blades.

Crewe's medical staff now face a race against time to get players fit for next Tuesday's home tie against Crystal Palace.

Centre-back Dave Walton was rushed to hospital for 17 stitches in his cheek and lip after he was caught by a stray boot.

Gradi said he thought the challenge was an accident.

"I don't think there was anything malicious in it, but I think the game was out of control by then," he said.

"I have never seen Jermaine lose his temper before - even when I took him off after half an hour at Tranmere.

"It was always going to be a difficult game which became almost impossible. Even when we were in front we weren't allowed to play because we were being up-ended."

An angry Gradi approached the official during the break to talk about the fierce nature of the tackling.

"I spoke to him on the players behalf because I thought they needed some protection. And to be fair I thought he gave it in the second half."

Seth Johnson was also caught in the mouth by an elbow in an aerial challenge, while Rodney Jack took a knock to the shoulder.

"Rodney was a thorn in their flesh. He was obviously in pain at half-time but he continued to try and win the game for us."

The Alex boss said he was also angered when Steve Anthrobus had a penalty appeal turned down.

"He was quite clearly pushed. He jumped in the air then got forced forward. If that technique was possible people would be using it to break the long jump world record."

But he had no cause for complaint about the Johnson dismissal.

"That was just a clever bit of play on their part. Seth was a bit reckless but didn't actually make contact with the guy at all. He needs to learn that that's how some players behave."

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