Crewe Alexandra boss Alex Morris admits he was pleased his side were able to test themselves against tougher opposition when they faced off against Leeds United's U21s.
The two squared off in the Papa John's Trophy on Tuesday evening, with Crewe managing to come out on top in a penalty shootout after playing out a 0-0 draw.
Leeds played a strong side, with their starting line-up featuring a host of first teamers, including Joe Gelhardt, Wilfried Gnonto, Mateusz Klich, Darko Gyabi, Junior Firpo and Cody Drameh.
READ MORE: Jesse Marsch's wife's brilliant reaction to Leeds United boss' eccentric Liverpool celebration
Morris and co knew going into the game they would not be able to match Leeds quality, instead opting to stick in and defend resolutely. While the Whites had a whopping 75% possession, they were unable to convert that into a goal.
And speaking after the contest, Morris revealed he was happy his side managed to get a result against such a strong team, in what he called a "positive experience".
"Usually these games are for an U21s side to gain positive experience of playing against senior pros, but this was the other way around," said Morris.
"We had a really young team, a couple made their debuts, and they put out the strongest U21s team I’ve ever seen fielded in this competition. It was full of players who have played at the top level and internationally, so the experience was there for us to have, and the outcome was positive.
"If we’d have gone toe-to-toe with them and tried to play the football they played, we’d have got a resounding beating. Their team could probably compete in the low-end Championship, top-end League One. We defended magnificently and stuck to the plan.
"The boys were rewarded by winning the tie on penalties – even though it might have been the worst shootout I’ve ever seen! I’ve never seen so many miss the target before. But Dave has an excellent record of saving them, and he stopped the ones he had to, and pleased the players got their reward for their effort and endeavour."
READ NEXT:
- Incredible Crysencio Summerville stat highlights impact of Liverpool winner
- Jack Charlton's family back call for Leeds United legend to be awarded posthumous knighthood
- Tyler Adams hails impact of Leeds United substitutes as Wilfried Gnonto makes competitive debut
- 'Obviously a problem' - Jurgen Klopp pinpoints moment Leeds United took advantage at Liverpool
- Alisson makes Leeds United admission after Crysencio Summerville winner at Liverpool
