Coalition Crusaders

Published: 28 May, 2015
by STEVE BARNETT

COALITION Crusaders etched their name in Camden Sunday League history at the weekend when they were crowned champions for the third year in a row. 

A thrilling victory over rivals Cobden Athletic saw Crusaders “complete their goal” of winning all three divisions in the league back-to-back. 

This time around the celebrations were at Cobden’s expense as victory, in what proved an epic contest at Hackney Marshes, would have seen them take the division one title for the fourth year in a row. 

Two goals from striker Abiola Babatope and a powerful header from defender Imran Khan saw Turk Mustafa’s side come from a goal down to beat Cobden 3-2 in one of the games of the season. 

“Our target from the offset was to win all three divisions back-to-back and we’ve done that,” beamed Turk. “It’s been hard work, and there’s been a lot of pressure on me and the players, which has affected all of us mentally and physically. The team desperately wanted to be successful, and we have been. 

“It’s pointless going out on a Sunday morning if you’re not planning to win. We’ve lost just one league game in three years. That’s a fantastic achievement.” 

Crusaders have certainly become a thorn in Cobden’s side. Not only did they stop them winning a fourth successive championship, but they also beat them in the final of the Bill Price Cup. 

Nicholas Carrol scored the only goal of the game as Crusaders ran out 1-0 winners to kick-start a magnificent league and cup double.