IRISH LEAGUE: Crusaders boss Stephen Baxter ready to '˜move on quickly' following Carrick defeat

The champions missed out on the chance to go eight points clear at the top of the Danske Bank Premiership as they suffered a 4-3 loss at Belfast Loughshore Hotel Arena.

At one stage the Crues trailed 3-0 before a mini-revival almost saw them turn the game on its head.

Carrick added a fourth to make it 4-2 before Jordan Forsythe bagged a late consolation for Baxter’s side.

“One or two of our players had an off-night, and when that happens then you will struggle to win games in this league,” Baxter said.

“We made some terrible mistakes to allow Carrick to score their goals, and we were then chasing the game.

“All credit to Carrick, they fought and scrapped for every goal and got their win.

“For us, we move on quickly as we have another game on Saturday which will be another tough test.

“Dungannon are on a high at present and have picked up some great results. They have moved into seventh spot so they will be up for it.”