Champions League: Levadia Talinn were 'disrespectful' - Baxter

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Crusaders manager Stephen BaxterImage source, Press Eye
Image caption,

Crusaders manager Stephen Baxter spoke to BBC Radio Ulster commentator Joel Taggart after the game

Crusaders manager Stephen Baxter says the club's Champions League first qualifying round opponents Levadia Tallinn were 'disrespectful' of the Irish Premiership part-timers.

A goal from Michael Carvill helped the Crues to a second-leg 1-1 draw, which saw them progress on away goals.

"We felt they paid us a little bit of disrespect. Some of their manager's comments were not respectful to us.

"They got what they deserved from the game, which was nothing," said Baxter.

The Crues manager added that he believed his side "thoroughy deserved the win" and his players showed "great hunger and a high workrate".

"We knew we wouldn't have a lot of the ball and we had to adapt our tactics but we created the big chances to score on the night.

"They (Levadia) were sharp and quick but they didn't penetrate us at all. Irish League teams are now competing much better in Europe and are capable of winning ties."

Media caption,

Crusaders arrive back in Belfast after their Champions league victory

The club's progression to the second round is believed to be worth around £140,000 in prize money and further financial reward is on offer if they could overcome their next opposition, Albanian outfit KF Skenderbeu.

"The financial boost means that our debt is now cleared and we can maybe bring in one or two players to improve the squad, but we will be wise with it.

"We'll keep our feet firmly on the ground however as four of the lads may not be able to make the trip next week.

"One is on holiday and others have work commitments. We may have to talk to some employers and hope that they are sympathetic.

"The Albanian team are a little bit lower ranked than the team we have just played and we know it will be tough as they have had some good results in Europe."

Goalscoring hero Carvill believes the north Belfast club have "nothing to fear" and were "the better team" in Estonia.

"It wasn't as if it was a smash and grab raid. They had a few moments, but generally we were comfortable enough," said the former Linfield forward.

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