Crusaders FC suffered a 2-1 defeat away to Ballymena United in the Premiership on Saturday, a result that deepens their recent slump. The visitors took a dream start but were undone by two first-half goals at the Showgrounds.
D. Rocks gave the Crues the lead after just one minute. The advantage was short-lived, as J. Archer equalised for Ballymena United in the 12th minute. K. Lyons-Foster then put the hosts ahead ten minutes after the restart, scoring what proved to be the winner in the 55th minute.
The second half became a fragmented affair littered with substitutions and yellow cards. The game's physical nature was reflected in six bookings, with D. Rocks and R. Weir among those cautioned for the visitors.
This loss is Crusaders' third in a row in the league, following heavy defeats to Larne and Carrick Rangers. The recent 3-0 loss to Larne on Saturday 10 October and the 4-0 defeat at Carrick Rangers on Saturday 3 October contributed to a run of one win and four losses from their last five Premiership fixtures. Their overall record this season stands at five wins and seven losses from 12 games, leaving them seventh in the standings with 15 points. They have scored 16 goals but conceded 23, giving them a goal difference of minus seven.
Attention now turns to cup competition as Crusaders prepare to host Warrenpoint Town in the League Cup on Wednesday night at Milltown. They return to Premiership action next Saturday with a daunting home fixture against table-topping Coleraine FC, who they trail by 16 points. That key league match is scheduled for Saturday 24 October.
