Crusaders are away in the next Sports Direct Premiership game in the calendar and they play Glenavon at Mourneview Park (8pm) in a rearranged game that was postponed from Saturday week back. It is a big game for both as Crusaders look to get back into the chasing pack at the top of the congested table while a result for Glenavon could see them pull away from the bottom of the table.
Crusaders will want to bounce back from a poor second half performance against Glentoran that saw them lose the game 3-1 and Declan Caddell will leave the team in no doubt what they need to do in this game. Crusaders could be without Robbie Weir if he fails a fitness test after coming off injured against Glentoran. It could mean a change in midfield then and Josh Williamson could return if Robbie Weir does not make it. With injuries in the squad Crusaders could be largely unchanged and Lewis Barr and Harry Franklin could also miss out again as they recover from injuries susutained a few weeks ago. The back four should not change while we may see Jordan Owens getting a rare start as the festive fixtures come thick and fast and legs are kept fresh.
Glenavon under new manager Paddy McLaughlin are still looking their first win after one win and one draw to start his reign. They have not played this month yet and will be refreshed and ready for this game compared to Crusaders who played on Friday night. McLaughlin will be pleased with his sides committment in the 3-3 draw and with extra sessions under their belt his impact could be a massive influence in this game. David McDaid could be the important player to watch and ex Crusaders star Matthew Snoddy could also have a big say in the result.
So we need your backing as we begin a heavy programme over the next few weeks. Your support as the 12th man is important and appreciated. Tickets can be bought at https://www.glenavonfc.com/ticketing-2/ now and any tickets bought for the original game will aslo be valid. Let's see you follow your team to Lurgan and getting behind them. C'mon the Crues.