The roar from the Seaview faithful said it all—Crusaders are staying up. In a heart-stopping Irish Premiership play-off final, the Shore Road side defeated Annagh United 3-1 on penalties after a wild 4-4 aggregate draw across two legs, securing their top-flight status for another season.

Goalkeeper Musa Dibaga wrote his name into Crues folklore, saving two spot-kicks in the shootout after 210 minutes of gripping football. The drama began early when Josh Williamson's clumsy challenge on Aaron Rogers gifted Annagh a penalty in the opening minutes. Donnelly stepped up and buried it low, despite Dibaga guessing the right way.

The visitors smelled blood. Dibaga was forced into action again just before halftime, denying Donnelly a second with a sharp save to his left. But minutes later, another penalty was awarded—Ryan Swan tumbled in the box. Donnelly stepped up once more, but this time Dibaga stood tall, diving the same way and making a crucial stop to keep the score 1-0 at the break.

Annagh doubled their lead early in the second half when Craig Taylor's long throw caused chaos. Aaron Rogers flicked on, and Lee Upton stretched to poke home from close range. Crusaders needed a spark, and substitute Stewart Nixon provided it in the 71st minute. After a Josh Williamson free-kick wasn't cleared, Nixon pounced on the loose ball to fire home and give the hosts hope.

With the aggregate locked at 4-4, extra time was inevitable. Both sides pushed for a winner in north Belfast, but fatigue and tension set in. Chances came and went, and ultimately, the tie would be settled from 12 yards.

Dibaga rose to the occasion once more. He saved two penalties in the shootout, sparking wild celebrations as Crusaders secured their survival in the most dramatic fashion. For manager Declan Caddell and everyone at the club, it was a moment of pure relief—and a reminder that in football, the fight to stay up can be just as thrilling as the chase for glory.