WANDERERS Under-18s bounced back from defeat against Barnsley with a hard-fought 2-2 draw at Crewe Alexandra on Saturday.

David Lee's youngsters came from a goal down and almost clinched all three U18 Professional Development League 2 points but conceded an equaliser late in the game.

Having lost on home soil to the Tykes a week earlier, things did not look good for the young Whites when they fell behind just two minutes in at Crewe.

But the team's response was good and top scorer Alex Samizadeh was narrowly wide of the mark with an effort from distance.

They were back on level terms when Max Allen netted from the penalty spot after Enock Likoy-Elumba had been brought down by the home stopper as he looked to make the most of a fine Jack Earing pass and score.

Things got even better for Wanderers when Tom Grivosti scored a second to put them in front for the first time.

The 16-year-old Liverpudlian ran from his own half to fire home a stunning effort into the top corner from 35 yards.

Lee's charges continued to be the better team after the interval but they were denied maximum points 10 minutes from time when they conceded from a set-piece.

However the coach was pleased with his players' efforts.

Lee told The Bolton News: "We had an early setback, conceding after only two minutes, but we responded very well.

"We pressed well and deserved an equaliser with a well-taken penalty.

"We were the better team throughout the second half, though with 10 minutes left we conceded from a set-play.

"Overall, though, it was a pleasing performance with the players showing a good attitude and character to get something from the game."

The Under-18s have a blank weekend before returning to action on Saturday week at Nottingham Forest.

Meanwhile, Wanderers U18s will travel to either Exeter City of Oxford United in the third round of the FA Youth Cup.

Their opponents will be decided tomorrow night when Oxford travel to St James Park.

The third round clash is scheduled to be played before December 19.