Crusaders manager Declan Caddell expressed disappointment, stating his team “let themselves down” following their 6-1 loss to Carrick Rangers at Taylors Avenue.
Aidan Steele, Adam Lecky, and Danny Gibson each found the net, while Paul Heatley scored twice and Fraser Bryden contributed an own goal, leading to a convincing victory for former Crusaders manager Stephen Baxter’s team.
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With 26 points, Crusaders are currently positioned 11th in the league, having played one more game than Glenavon, who sit just a point behind with a better goal difference.
“It was poor and embarrassing from us,” Caddell relayed to BBC Sport NI. “The fans have shown unwavering support all season, and they deserve better than what we delivered today. The players should feel embarrassed about their performance.”
“Not only did they let me down and disappoint the fans, but most importantly, they let themselves down.”
The Crusaders have now gone 12 matches without a victory, with their last win against Dungannon Swifts on January 3.
Caddell emphasized the need for the team to “move forward” as they approach their final four matches, which include a clash against Glenavon at Mourneview Park.
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“Starting today, we need to erase this from our minds and push on. This defeat should hurt deeply,” Caddell asserted. “Every match is important. We have two home games coming up, and it is crucial that we perform much better. If we show up like we did today, it won’t go well. Overall, it was a disappointing performance from start to finish, and I can’t pinpoint the cause.”
Baxter: Watching Crusaders Struggle Is ‘Heartbreaking’
Although the result nearly guarantees Carrick Rangers a seventh-place finish, Baxter admitted he feels saddened by the struggles of his former club.
During his 19-year tenure at Crusaders, Baxter led the team to three Irish Premiership titles, four Irish Cups, a League Cup, and three County Antrim Shields.
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This season, Carrick Rangers’ campaign has been markedly different, as they have already secured the County Antrim Shield.
“Crusaders is a club I cherish deeply. The memories we’ve made together are irreplaceable, and our achievements were truly remarkable,” Baxter shared with BBC Radio Ulster’s Sportsound. “It’s disheartening to see their current state, and I hope they can regroup, find their footing, and make a strong push to avoid relegation.”
“Honestly, it’s heartbreaking for me to witness what’s happening, and it’s disappointing as well.”