RFL offer support as Cru face financial problems
End of RL In Wales?
By Chris O'Brien
July 7 2009
Worrying reports suggest that the Celtic Crusaders find themselves in a precarious financial position. Club chairman Leighton Samuel has rebuffed claims that he is set to withdraw his monetary assistance for the Saders - yet the Rugby Football League have since been prompted to commit themselves to helping Cru through a difficult period.
Fans have been left concerned after a series of media reports emphasised the financial difficulties that the club currently find themselves in.
However, Samuel has rejected speculation that his company Dekor PLC are having trading troubles and has underlined his long-term commitment to the South Walian outfit.
The RFL have revealed that they'll be offering the Crusaders a helping hand through difficult times, with director of development director of development Gary Tasker saying: "It was always going to be tough for Celtic in their first year as an engage Super League club and the RFL is lending its expertise to provide the support they need.
"When their Super League licence was first approved, the world was a very different place to what it is now and no-one at Celtic Crusaders could have anticipated many of the difficulties they have faced. However, they are in it for the long haul and we are determined to do what we can to help them find additional investors."
The RFL task force established to help the Saders also helped the Catalans Dragons in their inaugural season in Super League, whilst those involved playing a leading role in the rebranding of the Bradford Bulls back in 1995.
These reports are worrying - although statements from Samuel promising commitment and the RFL promising support do help the situation. The club need an average crowd of 4,500 to break even - but crowds are dwindling and the coffers are becoming increasingly dependent on away fans.
Should we be worried? Leave a comment below or join the debate on the messageboard.
If you do not already have an account Click here to Register.
The first year was never going to be easy - but all this talk of Newport, Wrexham, financial trouble and so on suggests all isn’t well with the current set-up.
????