CREWE'S players returned to action for the first time since March 7 as they hosted Welsh Premier Champions Connah's Quay Nomads at Reaseheath.

The Alex stepped up their pre-season preparations with their first warm-up match, fielding two sides in each half and responding strongly to falling behind to Andy Morrison's outfit before the break.

Second-half goals from Daniel Powell, Charlie Kirk and Callum Ainley secured a 3-1 win after Callum Morris struck for the visitors who are preparing for Champions League qualifying round fixtures later this month.

New frontline signing Offrande Zanzala was given a first-half run-out while the second half saw the re-emergence of Eddie Nolan with the centre-half playing his first game since he suffered a back injury last December. The second-half team sheet also included a trialist.

Crewe, who returned to training 11 days ago, are set to square up to more Welsh opposition in the shape of Bala Town later this week, again behind closed doors, while a traditional warm-up against Nantwich Town is also being arranged.