IRISH CUP: Stephen Baxter eyeing up domestic double with Crusaders

The Crues can boast a seven-point lead at the top of the Danske Bank Premiership, with a game in hand over their chief rivals.

They are also preparing for a Tennent’s Irish Cup quarter-final clash with Carrick Rangers at Seaview on Saturday afternoon.

The Premiership champions – who lifted the trophy back in 2009 – remain on course to record a double this term.

And Baxter is relishing the challenge.

“We’re into the last nine weeks of the season and every game is crucial now,” he said.

“It’s important we transfer our league form into the cup.

“Ultimately, we have our eyes fixed on trying to reach the final in May. The Irish Cup is our premier knockout competition and it’s a prestigious trophy.

“A top team should always expect to be around finals and semi-finals and that has to be our target. That’s the bar we set.”