Crusaders U18's tonight are through to the Harry Cavan Youth Cup 3rd Round after two late goals secured the win against Ballinamallard United U18's at Seaview.
Crusaders fell behind after only 2 minutes when Jack Beatty pounced on a defensive mistake and the visitors went ahead. Crusaders U18's came back quickly and large parts of the half where spent in the Ballinamallard United U18's final third but last gasp defending and good goalkeeping kept the score at 1-0. Crusaders U18's where awarded a penalty on 44 minutes when Aureli Karrabecaj was fouled but he then went on to miss the penalty with the keeper saving his spot kick.
1-0 down Crusaders U18's came out fighting again in the second half and gave it a real go but again heroic defending and good goal keeping kept the score the way it was. It was the inspirational substitutions that finally made the difference. Jack Martindale was only on and he managed to get on the end of a vicious cross and he directed the ball into the net to make it 1-1 after 78 minutes. Crusaders U18's then smelt victory and the winning goal on 84 minutes again came from a sub. Scott Macleod was in the right place at the right time and poked the ball through a congested six yard box to put Crusaders U18's ahead 2-1. Both sides had chances in the final minutes but couldn't take them and on the whistle Crusaders U18's where through to the next round.
Well done everyone on the victory and we will let you know who they play in the 3rd round as soon as we know.