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Steven Crawford

Fitting end to an impressive season for Crusaders star man Philip Lowry

It was fitting that Philip Lowry lifted the Irish Cup for Crusaders alongside his good friend Billy Joe Burns.

The midfielder was handed the captain's armband on Sunday after Burns was ruled out due to suspension.

Unsurprisingly Lowry led from the front scoring the crucial third goal - his 21st of a remarkable campaign - to help the Crues secure back-to-back Irish Cup wins.

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And while it has been a memorable season in more ways than one for the 33-year-old, where does it rank overall for him?

"I wouldn't say it's the best season of my life because I won three doubles back-to-back and had a golden period there," replied Lowry.

"I spoke during the week and said success for me isn't about scoring goals, it's about the team doing well.

"I haven't played any differently this season to what I have in the last four or five. It's just the goals are the only differences - my performances have been the same.

"People pick up their phone and the first thing they see is who scored the goals and often my name has been there."

Despite standing in for Burns against Ballymena United Lowry said it was always his intention to lift the trophy with his teammate.

"That was always in the back of my head because every trophy I've ever won, I've won it with BJ," he explained.

"All my trophies at Linfield were with him, we are the same age, we got married around the same time, we have families around the same age - we're really great mates.

"Leading the team out today was a bit emotional because I was so gutted for him over something so stupid.

"He's such a good captain and unbelievable player. It was always in my head to do it for him."

Crusaders lift the Irish Cup (INPHO/Jonathan Porter)

Lowry believes getting their hands on the trophy for a sixth time is fitting reward for their efforts this season, especially after having to contend with so much this year.

"For us to finish fifth in the league and win this cup - we have had so much to put up with," he said.

"We lost our talisman and best player in Ben Kennedy, we lost Paul (Heatley), lost Josh and everyone thinks it's old Crusaders who are full of journeymen, old players and hoof the ball up and hope for the best.

"You just have to look at today and see we put those myths to bed because we have great players and fantastic professionals. "

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