Crusaders FC's search for consistency was halted by a narrow 1-0 defeat to Linfield in the NIFL Premiership. The solitary goal from Kirk Millar in the 47th minute at Windsor Park last Saturday was enough to separate the sides and keep the Seaview outfit in sixth place.
Stephen Baxter's team now have 12 points from their opening eight matches, a record of four wins and four losses. Their recent form reads two wins and three losses from the last five, a sequence that includes a 3-0 victory over Dungannon Swifts but also heavy defeats to Coleraine and Limavady United.
The decisive moment
Linfield, who sit second in the table, applied pressure throughout the first half at their home ground. The breakthrough came just after the interval when Millar found space and finished clinically. Crusaders responded but could not find a way past the home defence, ending the game with a third loss in their last five Premiership outings.
This was the first league meeting between the two Belfast clubs this season, following three encounters in the previous campaign. The result extends a difficult run for the Hatchetmen against the top sides, having also lost 4-1 to leaders Coleraine earlier this month.
Looking ahead
With 13 goals scored and 13 conceded so far, finding a more reliable attacking edge will be a priority. The squad will aim to address that in their next fixture, a home game against Bangor on Saturday, 26 September. Bangor currently occupy 11th position, presenting an opportunity for Crusaders to return to winning ways at Seaview.
Baxter will be demanding a reaction from his players as they look to climb the table and close the ten-point gap to the summit.
First reported at Sofascore
