It's the North Belfast Derby this week for Crusaders and little motivation is needed to perform in this game against Cliftonville in the latest Sports Direct Premiership game for both at Solitude (3pm) Crusaders are itching to get back at it after a fourteen day lay off while Cliftonville want to build on their two wins in the last two games and with it being the Derby both sides will give it a go.
Stephen Baxter sends his team into the game knowing that a win is a must to stay in touch at the top of the Premiership. Last weeks game was postponed against Linfield so the lads have had some great sessions during that time and players with niggles have hopefully recovered and are available. Rory McKeown and Jimmy Callagher remain out of contention with long term injuries so the back four against Loughgall should be unchanged. We could see Paul Heatley start after his superb cameo role and goal against Loughgall while Adam Lecky could also return to the starting line up. We wait to see who gets the nod but we do know 100% will be given.
Cliftonville are a changed side this season under Jim Magilton and go into the game with three wins in the last five Premiership games. They know Crusaders will want to avenge the defeat at Seaview the last time the sides met and will set up accordingly. Cliftonville are strong across the park from Johnny Addis at the back, ex Crusaders player Rory Hale in the middle and Joe Gormley and Ben Wilson up front along side another ex Crusaders Ronan Hale.
We want you with us in such an important game so go to www.cliftonvillefc.net and log on to buy your ticket. Let's go in numbers and get behind our team as we look to bring home three points and the bragging rights of being the Pride of North Belfast. Keep the Faith. C'mon the Crues.