It was defeat at Seaview today as Crusaders lost to Linfield 1-0 in the Sports Direct Premiership when a early Linfield goal made the difference between the sides. Crusaders just lacked in quality today and although a better second half performance gave them a few chances they just could not get a goal.
Linfield started strongly and that pressure counted after 9 minutes when Matthew Fitzpatrick volleyed past Musa Dibaga after a ball came in his direction off Josh Archers knee. Crusaders created a few “half chances” but they could not bother Chris Johns in goal. Linfield where awarded a penalty after 36 minutes when Lewis Barr's outstretched hand connected with the ball inside the box but MOTM Musa Dibaga saved yet another penalty this season as he dived low to his left and knocked Alej Gorrin's spot kick away with his glove. Musa again had time to make another good save before the half ended and Crusaders went in 1 down at the break.
Crusaders rallied slightly in the second half but the Linfield defence dealt with everything and both sides cancelled each other out. As Crusaders pushed for the equaliser Linfield had Jamie Mulgrew to thank when he made a goal line clearance from a Crusaders corner that flicked off a Crusaders player back heel. Musa Dibaga stepped up again when he scooped the ball away after Linfield had hit the post. With the game coming to an end Linfield seemed content to contain and on the whistle they had won at Seaview.
So defeat and with Carrick Rangers winning at Taylors Avenue Crusaders slip to 11th in the table. Next up is Larne at Seaview next Saturday (24th Jan) in the Sports Direct Premiership once again.