U18s: City 5 Crewe 3

The visiting Alex trailed 2-0 and 3-2 at different stages of an action-packed game, but fought back on both occasions to level the scores and truly test the resolve of City’s youngsters.

But the hosts eventually gave themselves the breathing space to fight off the challenge of their spirited visitors towards the end, making it back-to-back wins from their final two league games of 2012.

Stankevicius, a 16-year-old forward who has already represented Lithuania at Under-19 level, opened the scoring for the Foxes before young professional Joe Dodoo added a second.

Stankevicius’ second of the game edged the hosts back in front following Crewe’s initial fight-back, but the Railwaymen refused to lie down and levelled once more to leave the game poised at 3-3.

With the match up for grabs and both sides going for the win, it was City that eventually pulled clear – Herve Pepe N’Goma putting the hosts back in front before Stankevicius completed his hat-trick.

“It was a very pleasing win and a good performance in terms of our ball retention against what has always been a very strong academy in Crewe Alexandra,” said Academy Director Jon Rudkin.

“We talk often about 2-0 being a dangerous score-line because of how momentum can shift depending on who scores the next goal. We gave them a lifeline at 2-1 and then Crewe managed to level the scores.

“But the group have shown real resilience with their work rate, attitude and ethic to keep going consistently this season and were well-rewarded with two very fine goals that secured the win.

“A hat-trick was also very pleasing for young Simonas, a first year scholar who has only been with the Club for six months. It was a just reward for his hard work so far this season.”

City’s Under-18s will resume action in the Professional Development Under-18 league in the New Year, but travel to Blackburn Rovers in the FA Youth Cup on Tuesday 11 December, kick-off 7pm.