Crewe Alexandra vs Cheltenham Town: Prediction, Team News, and Lineups
Crewe Alexandra faces Cheltenham Town on Thursday at Mornflake Stadium in a League Two showdown. Currently, Crewe sits 13th in the league table with 32 points, while Cheltenham is positioned 18th with 27 points.
Match Preview
Crewe aims to improve their standing after suffering back-to-back defeats, including a recent 2-0 loss to Newport County. Although they had significant opportunities, their expected goals (xG) from open play was just 0.26. The club has struggled defensively, allowing 31 goals in 23 matches, making them one of the weakest defenses in the top 16 teams.
In their last nine matches in all competitions, Crewe managed only one victory, along with four draws and four defeats. Their home form is concerning, as they have not won any of their last four matches at Mornflake Stadium, although they remain unbeaten in their last five league games there, securing two wins and three draws.
Cheltenham Town recently lost 2-0 to Swindon Town, failing to create significant scoring opportunities. Prior to this defeat, they had recorded four wins and one draw in their previous five matches. Currently, Cheltenham is ten points clear of the relegation zone, but closing the gap to the promotion spots will be challenging.
Historical Context
In their previous encounters during the 2024-25 season, Cheltenham emerged victorious in both matches, winning 3-2 away and 2-1 at home. As they prepare for Thursday’s clash, Cheltenham aims to secure their third consecutive away win, while a loss would mark their third defeat in five outings.
Team News
Crewe’s leading scorer, Emre Tezgel, is doubtful due to an ankle injury. Consequently, Louis Moult is expected to lead the attack, potentially supported by Tommi O’Reilly and Dion Rankine. Jack Powell and Max Sanders are likely to start in midfield, while the defense will include James Connolly and Lewis Billington.
Cheltenham’s setup may see Jake Bickerstaff in the striker position, flanked by Jordan Thomas and Hakeeb Adelakun. Central defenders Robbie Cundy and James Wilson will likely be shielded by defensive midfielder Ben Stevenson.
Expected Lineups
| Crewe Alexandra | Cheltenham Town |
|---|---|
| Waller | Day |
| Mingi, Connolly, Billington, Hutchinson | Jude-Boyd, Cundy, Wilson, Tomkinson |
| Powell, Sanders | Young, Stevenson, Archer |
| O’Reilly, Lunt, Rankine | Thomas, Bickerstaff, Adelakun |
Prediction
Given Crewe’s defensive vulnerabilities and uncertainties surrounding their top scorer, predictions favor Cheltenham Town. Although they faced defeat last time, their overall form suggests they could secure a victory away from home against Crewe.
