Crusaders are on their travels this week with a trip to Ballymena to play Ballymena United (3pm) It is the first time their season and we are looking for that all important win to keep in touch with the leading pack. Ballymena United have been in patchy form losing last time out to Larne but they will regroup and be ready for this one.
Stephen Baxter will hopefully have the majority of the squad back after illness stretched us last week to the limit. Most have reported fit and a weeks training under their belt will have them fighting fit and ready for action. We will possibly see the return of Jordan Forsythe and Jude Winchester for example while Jarlath O'Rourke will push to start after a slight injury put him to the subs bench but Rory McKeown has been brilliant the last few games in that position. Man of the Match last week Adam Lecky should keep his place while Jordan Owens could return to the bench is passed fit. Whoever plays will of course give it their all and look the three points come 4.50pm
David Jeffrey cuts a frustrated figure on the sidelines this season as his side “stops and starts” as the season progresses. Neither he or they will give up and Crusaders will be wary of what United are capable of considering they have already beaten them this season at Seaview. United have experienced players such as Ross Redman, Davy McDaid and Kym Nelson who can change a game and they will go out to do that.
Crusaders and Ballymena Utd have met twice this season with both sides winning one apiece
23/09/22 Crusaders 3 Ballymena Utd 0
14/11/22 Crusaders 0 Ballymena Utd 1
Referee Steven Gregg
Asst Referees Kristian Hanna & Shane Geary
4th Official Keith Kennedy
As we say every week your support has been outstanding and we thank you for getting behind the team. We of course want that to carry on so go now to https://www.ballymenaunitedfc.com/tickets/index_away.php and buy that all important ticket. Get the colours on and bring your voices.
Don't forget the important supporters info via this link for the game. https://crusadersfootballclub.com/news/important-supporters-information-for-ballymena-game-saturday
See you there Keep the Faith. C'mon the Crues.