Crues boss is write on the money

CRUSADERS boss Stephen Baxter last night praised his players after picking up the Betmclean manager of the month for November.

The Seaviewmen, who lie second heading to Warrenpoint today, secured six wins and a draw in all competitions.

Baxter said: “It’s a great honour to win this award and I’d like to thank the Northern Ireland football writers for selecting me. It really is appreciated.

“It was a big month for us with seven fixtures in four different competitions, but thankfully we came out of it with six wins and a draw against Coleraine.

“The players have been superb for me and this award is a recognition of their achievements.”

Baxter is eager to build on a 12 game unbeaten run as the Crues bid to close the gap on leaders Coleraine at the league summit.

He said: “We have Warrenpoint and then Dungannon in the League Cup semi-finals on Tuesday, followed by Glenavon away next Saturday.

“Three away games will test us, but our away form has been brilliant this year so we have to be confident in what we do.”

Elsewhere today, fourth placed Linfield travel to Carrick Rangers who have lost their last eight games in all competitions.

Boss David Healy said: “The festive period is crucial. All the other teams (at the top) keeping winning, so it’s important we keep the momentum going at Carrick.”

Glentoran host basement club Ballinamallard while David Jeffrey’s Ballymena United face Ards.