Crawley strike psychological blow in promotion race

First half goals from Scott Neilson, Billy Clarke and a deflected Josh Simpson cross ensured Crawley moved into the final automatic promotion spot, although they were pegged back a little in the second half as Cobblers substitute Brett Williams netted from close range.

Brewster said: “I think physchologically that could be a big lift for us. The first half performance was excellent but in the second half we got a little sloppy and let them back in it, but it was a big three points for us.

“In the first half we were getting balls forward and turning centre backs, we never did that second half.”

The Reds welcomed Kyle McFadzean and Claude Davis back from suspension, and Brewster admitted they would be huge additions to the squad.

“They are big players and it was a tough decision to leave John Dempster out, but when you are manager, you have to make these decisions. I thought with Claude’s experience and with Kyle, you just have to look at him in training, he is a joy to work with.”

Crawley are now above Torquay on goal-difference, with three games to play.

“We are in a good position, we have to stay there and make it count,” Brewster added.