Crusaders boss Stephen Baxter named manager of the month

Crusaders boss Stephen Baxter has been named the NI Football Writers' manager of the month following his team's string of fine results in October.

The Crues were unbeaten during the month and achieved wins over Glentoran, Cliftonville and Ballinamallard United.

The Shored Road side also reached the quarter-finals of the League Cup and made further progress with victory on Monday night over Lisburn Distillery

It is the seventh time Baxter has won the manager of the month award.

"I am picking up this award for the whole team," said Baxter.

"It has been a tough month and they have performed exceptionally well.

"We have got a good competitive league this year, which is what everyone wants."