Crusaders win title after battle to the wire

Crusaders celebrate winning the Irish Premiership. Credit: Presseye

Crusaders have clinched the Irish Premiership title ahead of Coleraine, despite the battle for silverware going right to the wire on the final day of action.

The Crues and Coleraine were both right in the race, separated only on goal difference.

But the Bannsiders only manage a final nil-all draw away to Glenavon, while Stephen Baxter’s Crusaders won out 2-1 away to Ballymena.

Crusaders boss Stephen Baxter celebrates his side's title win. Credit: Presseye

The Sky Blues had taken the lead with a Cathair Friel goal on 60 minutes.

However, the Crues came back with goals from Phillip Lowry and David Cushley to take the win at the Showgrounds.

David Cushley scored what was to be the winning goal for Crusaders. Credit: Pacemaker

That left scoreless Coleraine to rue what could have been – and they could only graciously offer up their congratulations to Crusaders.

“Unfortunately it’s not to be our time to lift the Gibson Cup,” a tweet from the club’s official Twitter account said.

Despair for Coleraine as they narrowly lose out on claiming the title. Credit: Presseye

At the other end of the table, Ballinamallard and Carrick Rangers were fighting for survival.

Agonisingly for the Mallards, they ended up beating Glentoran 3-1 at the Oval, but it still was not enough to avoid relegation.

With Carrick also winning, taking a 3-2 victory over Warrenpoint Town, the Co Fermanagh side had to resign themselves to a drop out of the top flight.

Saturday's Results

  • Ballymena 1 – 2 Crusaders

  • Glenavon 0 – 0 Coleraine

  • Glentoran 1 – 3 Ballinamallard

  • Warrenpoint Town 2 – 3 Carrick Rangers

  • Linfield 1 – 2 Cliftonville

  • Ards 3 – 4 Dungannon Swifts

Crusaders captain Colin Coates lifts the Gibson Cup. Credit: Presseye