Declan Caddell has told his Crusaders players that they have "set the bar" now in terms of the level of performance he wants from them every week.

Caddell was delighted with the comeback his charges produced in the BetMcLean Cup semi-final against Glentoran on Tuesday night as they fought back from 2-0 down to take the game to extra-time.

Ultimately they came up short as the Glens scored two late goals to set up a final showdown with Cliftonville in March but Caddell felt the best side lost on the night. Now he is demanding more of the same in terms of performance levels starting at Coleraine this afternoon saying "there can be no more excuses".

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"In terms of the performance and what they gave me that's now set the bar for what we want and expect week in, week out," said the Crues boss. “For me, the best team lost and unfortunately we were on the wrong end of the result.

"It was never a 4-2 game. I thought we were the better side over the 120 minutes and created the better opportunities. I couldn’t have asked for any more from the boys. It's not about doing it in a semi-final, we have to do it in the league. The BetMcLean Cup is done we have to focus on the league and start racking up some points.

"We've made excuses in recent weeks about players being out, well now they're back there can be no more excuses. I've told the boys it's time to step up and deliver now just like they did against Glentoran, I thought the performance was outstanding from everyone and that's now the bare minimum from everyone.

"Coleraine is another tough game, every game we've played them this season has been tough. They've a few new signings in the door so they will be full of confidence, but if we can replicate the performance from Tuesday night then most week's we'll pick up points."

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