Crusaders will file this season under one that ‘must not happen again’ after the side had to defeat Annagh United on penalties to secure their spot in next year’s Irish Premiership.
The north Belfast side managed to secure a shot at survival after an encouraging post-split run sealed 11th spot and a place in the relegation/promotion play-off after it looked like Glenavon may pull off an impressive comeback and send the Crues down automatically.
There have been positive points from the season, including how much of an impact summer signing Fraser Bryden, who finished the season with the second most goals, had. A challenge during the off season will be if they can keep the sought-after Scot at the club.
“This season’s been a rollercoaster. Parts we have done well and large parts we haven’t done well,” boss Declan Caddell said.
“We’re a young team, a really young team. What they’ve done this season won’t go unnoticed.”