Crusaders are back down the M1 for the second time in five days and the destination this time is Shamrock Park to play Portadown in the latest Sports Direct Premiership game. Crusaders will be looking to get back to winning ways after two Premiership defeats in a row while Portadown are flying high and are in good form.
Crusaders are looking to get points back on the board against Portadown after a few games that really have not done their early season form justice. Kieran Offord returns after suspension while an injury to Robbie Weir will be asssessed before a decision is made to include him in the squad. Harry Franklin and Lewis Barr have also missed lately because of injury and may also be included subject to their injury status. It has been slim pickings for manager Declan Caddell lately and it is hoped that will clear up further over the coming weeks. Declan and the management team will get the team ready for battle against Portadown and a win could kick start the season again and catapult Crusaders back up table.
Niall Curries Portadown sit in joint third in the Premiership table and are enjoying life at the top end of the table. Beaten just once in November and big win over Cliftonville last time out means that Portadown are a team on form and they will look to tuck in behind leaders Linfield with another victory. Ryan Mayse and Ahu Obhakhan have been their marksmen this season with 14 goals between them so the Crusaders defence will be keot busy keeping them at bay. If selected Crusaders will come up against ex Crusaders star Gary Thompson who has also been in top form and Paul McElroy.
So all set for another important game for Crusaders and your support is a massive part of it. Go now to https://portadownfc.co.uk/pfc-tickets/ and buy your ticket. Adults are £15, Concession £10, Under 16'S £5 and Primary School children are free. Get along to Shamrock Park, be the 12th man and get behind the team again. C'mon the Crues.