Crewe Alexandra manager Lee Bell has backed his attacking players to start finding the net, despite frustration in the final third during Saturday's 1-1 draw at Colchester United.
Defender Josh Stephenson secured a late equaliser for Crewe in Essex, but Bell felt several chances were wasted through poor finishing. Jack Lankester, Jordan Gibson, Calum Agius and Joel Tabiner are yet to score in the 2026/27 season.
Work needed in the final third
Bell identified specific issues in how Crewe approached chances. "We've got to work on the play in that final third," he said. "We were snatching at things and wanting to get that shot away. We were taking one-touch crosses when we could stay on the ball, trying to cross it when it wasn't on, or taking shots when there were players to slide in."
Despite the concern, Bell expressed confidence the goals would follow. "We've got a lot of people who want that goal to come for them. I like the hunger and desire to shoot and want to get goals, but we need to calm everybody down. The goals will come."
Unbeaten record maintained
The draw extended Crewe's unbeaten league run to six games. The club sits a couple of points off the top of the league.
"I'm pleased for the lads and the fans," Bell added. "There's lots to be pleased about and lots to work on. We're still unbeaten, a couple of points off the top of the league, and we'll keep striving to get better."
Crewe Alexandra face Shrewsbury Town at Mornflake Stadium on Saturday at 3pm.
