Crues 'thoroughly deserved' win over Swifts - Caddell

Crusaders boss Declan Caddell said his side "thoroughly deserved" their 2-0 win over Dungannon Swifts at Seaview.

Goals from Finley Thorndike and Fraser Bryden helped the hosts extend their unbeaten run to three games in the league.

The dogged victory also brought just a third clean sheet of the campaign, which Caddell was hugely satisfied with.

"It's a welcome three points, it's nice to start the new year off with a win at home as our home form hasn't been great," he told BBC Sport NI.

"The most pleasing thing for me was a clean sheet, something we have struggled with all season, but the boys were a credit to the fans today and I thought they were exceptional."

Caddell reserved praise for goalkeeper Musa Dibaga, who has put in a string of impressive displays since being reinstated to the starting side last month.

"Musa is growing in confidence week on week. He started at the start of the season and lacked that bit of confidence, we took him out and eased him back in and the last three weeks I think he's been exceptional," Caddell added.

"He made two good saves from free-kicks and some reaction saves and he showed today how good a goalkeeper he can be."

Dungannon Swifts boss Rodney McAree was frustrated with his side's display as they suffered a first league defeat in six games.

"We probably get what we deserve, we create numerous chances and don't take them, we present Crusaders with chances, and they capitalise on that," he said.

"I was a bit disappointed with us, at times we were lethargic and complacent, got caught in possession and paid the price."