With only two games left before the split Crusaders play Coleraine at Seaview on Saturday (3pm) in a massive game that is important to both ahead of the final five games in April. Crusaders edged ahead in third place after a win last week against Ballymena Utd while Coleraine had a morale boosting draw against Larne keeping them in sixth spot.
Crusaders have played well of late and are back on form as the right time. A good second half performance last week at the Ballymena Showgrounds will have given the team a huge boost and the return of manager Stephen Baxter to the touchline after serving his suspension will further motivate everyone also. Ben Kennedy has found his magical touch and will be key to getting a good result. The rest of the side should largely remain unchanged although Lewis Barr returns after missing last week through illness. It could mean a more recognisable back four with Jordan Forsythe moving up the pitch to his usual position. Everyone played a part last week and has left a selection headache for the management team but whoever plays will give it all for the win.
Coleraine have also found form again losing only once in their last five Premiership games and they arrive at Seaview looking a win to practically guarantee a top six place before the split so a lot lies on the shou;lders of the team. Jamie Glackin misses through suspension but Oran Kearney will have a game plan ready and a side picked to give Crusaders a tough game. They have come out the other side of a long sticky patch and Crusaders will need to keep an eye on Conor McKendry and Matthew Shevlin who are the threats on goal while Lyndon Kane and Josh Carson are also players that could cause Crusaders trouble.
So a cracking game awaits and the 12th man could be very important as both sides go head to head. We need you with us both in person and song so get your ticket and be part of a good day. Tickets can be bought at www.crusadersfc.com, in Harry D's up to 1pm on Saturday and finally at the Ticket Office inside the McDonald Centre from 1.30pm to kick off. It will be great too see you and getting behind Stephen and the team as we push for the highest play off spot available. Keep the Faith. C'mon the Crues.