Adam Brooks scored a hat-trick as Crusaders FC defeated Portadown 3-2 at Seaview to claim back-to-back Premiership wins. The victory lifts the north Belfast side to fifth in the table with 12 points from seven games, keeping them in the hunt for the top five.

Portadown were reduced to 10 men after Finn Flanagan received a second yellow card after 39 minutes. Despite that setback, the visitors fought back with goals from Baris Altintop and Eamon Fyfe to make a game of it in the second half.

Brooks' deserved moment

The 22-year-old Brooks, who joined from Queen of the South ahead of last season, was the clear match-winner. Manager Declan Caddell was full of praise for the forward's long-awaited breakthrough performance. "I’m delighted for Brooksy more than anybody tonight," Caddell said. He added, "He has been knocking on the door with that type of performance all last season and he started off pre-season really well." Caddell revealed that the second goal, which came from a set-piece, was the result of a routine worked on all week in training, a detail that pleased him.

Manager's mixed feelings

Caddell admitted his frustration at seeing his team, leading 2-0 against 10 men, allow Portadown back into the contest. "I’m happy with the three points and another win at home, but frustrated and angry at the second half performance, to be honest," the manager stated. He described the overall feeling as "bittersweet" given the manner of the win. He stressed the need for his players to learn to manage games better, especially when in a commanding position, and pointed out that the team had worked for 97 minutes to secure the result.

The win follows a 3-0 victory over Dungannon Swifts, giving Crusaders a recent form of three wins from their last five outings. With Elliot Dunlop now available for selection and summer recruit Owen Wardell making a bright start, Caddell feels the attacking options are there to hurt any team in the league. He also noted that the team has been creating chances consistently, which is a positive sign.

Attention now turns to a major test away to Linfield, who sit second in the Premiership. That fixture, scheduled for this weekend, will be a stern examination of Crusaders' ability to build on this momentum. Caddell acknowledged the challenge, stating that Linfield away is always a difficult game but one his team must be ready for. Check the latest standings to see how the table shapes up ahead of the clash.

First reported at newsletter.co.uk