The final match of the year for the NIFL Premiership took place at 15:00 EEST on 30 December 2023. Home team Crusaders FC faced off against FC Carrick Rangers. Statistical analysis of the match paints a clear picture of the Crusaders FC's dominance, a factor that led to their 2-0 triumph.

The Crusaders FC began to make their mark in the second half, with their first and second goals scored at 48′11″ and 64′46″ respectively. Despite having only 3 corner kicks compared to the 6 by FC Carrick Rangers, the home team was able to capitalize on their opportunities better, converting their possessions into tangible results on the scoreboard.

The number of offsides was balanced for both teams with two each, which indicates an evenly contested battle in the mid-field. Both teams' emphasis on tight marking and maintaining a high line of defence was evident from these offside stats.

However, the chink in FC Carrick Rangers' armour appeared to be lack of discipline. The away team accumulated 2 yellow cards - one in each half, and a red card, which seriously hampered their game plan. The yellow card in the 44th minute of the first half and the next one at the 62nd minute of the second half showed that Carrick Rangers progressively lost their cool as the game wore on. This could also suggest a change in their gameplay attitude from defensive to aggressive, hoping to come back from the initial goal. The situation worsened with the red card, forcing them to play with one less player and allowing the Crusaders to further exploit the situation, evident in the second goal that they scored 3 minutes after Carrick Rangers got reduced to 10 men.

Meanwhile, Crusaders FC managed their gameplay considerably better, earning only one yellow card, and no red cards. Their relatively clean record shows they focused more on cohesive play and disciplined defence.

Certainly, the significant reduction in manpower for FC Carrick Rangers and their inability to capitalise on corner kicks proved detrimental. On the other hand, Crusaders FC remained in control, utilised their chances well and their disciplined approach paid off. This match demonstrated the importance of patience, discipline and capitalising on opportunities in securing a decisive victory.

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