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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
Sport
Gareth Fullerton

The Club I Love with Crusaders supporter Colin McCullough

Supporters are the lifeblood of football.

They're the twelfth man, the wave that can carry their team to glory, or have the opposition shaking in their boots.

Fans have been able to attend some games in the Danske Bank Premiership this season, but currently all fixtures are being played behind closed doors under strict Covid regulations.

So we thought we would shine a light on those fans, and get an insight into where their love of their club came from and what they miss most right now.

We started with Crusaders supporter Colin McCullough...

1. Name and team you support?

Colin McCullough - Crusaders FC.

2.Who got you into supporting the Crues?

My Father and Grandfather were both lifelong supporters. I had no choice whether I liked it or not.

3. Earliest memory watching them?

I would have been about four or five years of age, sitting in the old stand at Seaview. I also remember crying when my Dad got on the boat to go and watch Crusaders play Liverpool in the European Cup because I wasn't allowed to go. Lol.

4. Favourite player of all time?

It's hard to pick one because I have so many favourites. We have had some class players down the years like Glenn Dunlop and others, but Big Kirk Hunter has to be the man. He was Crusaders to the bone and a big gentleman off the pitch.

5. Favourite player in current squad?

Jordan Owens. He is a club legend and another gentleman. He is my grandson's favourite as well.

Jordan Owens (right) celebrates scoring a goal (Inpho)

6. Best memory?

When we were away to Omagh Town FC and qualified for Europe for the first time, narrowly losing the league to Linfield. We were a little gutted but ecstatic at the same time. It was a great night back in the social club.

7. Day you'd rather forget?

The one and only season we were relegated after losing to Glenavon over two legs.

8. Favourite away day?

Solitude, just because it's derby day and we're all together.

9. Team you love beating the most?

Has to be Linfield.

10. What would be a good season for the Crues this year?

European football. I still think the league's too tight to call but we've a bit of catching up to do.

11. Best thing about the Irish League is...

The banter on match days with your own fans, and opposition fans as well. You can't beat it.

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