Adam Brooks has emerged as a potential replacement for departed striker Fraser Bryden after scoring a hat-trick in Crusaders’ 3-2 Irish Premiership win over 10-man Portadown. The 22-year-old Scot’s performance offers encouragement to manager Declan Caddell, who needs a reliable central goalscorer as the club seeks a stronger season and improved home form.

Brooks joined from Queen of the South on a two-year deal last summer and scored eight times in his first season, though his form declined after Christmas while Crusaders fought relegation. His three goals against Portadown were the league’s first hat-trick of the season, taking Crusaders to back-to-back home wins; however, the side again conceded avoidable goals before holding on.