CREWE failed to build on their Roger Haydock Cup triumph as they suffered back-to-back defeats in their latest friendlies.
After going down 3-0 at home to Winsford United on Wednesday, Ian O'Reilly's men wilted in the heat at New Brighton on Saturday, falling to a 2-1 reversal.
Mike Hilditch scored from the penalty spot for Crewe.
O'Reilly's men kick off their Mid Cheshire League Division One programme at home to Linotype this Saturday (3pm) and have an attractive friendly against a Crewe Alexandra side next Wednesday, August 20 (6.30pm) when admission will be £2.
Meanwhile, Crewe's second string continued their build-up for the new Mid Cheshire Reserves Division with a 2-0 home friendly defeat to Winsford United Reserves.
The majority of the Crewe team were 16-year-olds from last year's youth team who were playing their first game at such a level.
After a shaky start, Crewe began to put their game together and their quick passing gave the Winsford defence some scares. Hanson and Barrow linked up well and were well supported by Jones, who was in commanding form at the centre of Crewe's midfield.
The early part of the second half was all Crewe, with Hanson hitting the post and crossbar and two further goals disallowed for offside.
Winsford made the most of their luck, taking the lead with a superb strike from their right winger, who drove across the keeper and into the top corner of the net.
They clinched the game with a second goal from a defensive mistake.
'It was a very pleasing performance,' said chairman Pat Slack. 'Considering they had never played as a team at this level before, it is a big step-up. Yes, there are things for them to learn but that is what we have coaches for. If they keep this standard up, they will not go far wrong.'
