A terrible first half of the 2000–01 season saw Crewe bottom at Christmas.
Then with the emergence of Rob Hulse and Dean Ashton, Crewe went on a fantastic run, winning nine of their remaining matches to starve off relegation to finish 14th.
A 3–1 defeat by Preston on 28 April finally saw the Alex beaten at home after an unbeaten run of nine in the league.
Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply.
Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply.