Saders considering move to Newport for 2010

The Celtic Crusaders are considering a controversial switch from Bridgend to Newport. The Super League club have already arranged to play this season’s much-anticipated clash with the Leeds Rhinos at Rodney Parade – and could, ahead of the new season, switch all home fixtures to Wales’ third biggest city.

The Saders have played their home matches at Bridgend's Brewery Field since formation with the stadium witnessing the club's incredible rise from National League Two to the sport's elite European division.

However, amid reports that the club are struggling financially, the Saders have announced that they could leave the Brewery Field next season and play all home matches at Rodney Parade; home of the Newport Gwent Dragons and Newport RFC.

The statement came as the club aimed to quell supporters' fears amid reports of the Saders' financial uncertainty.

Chief Executive Mike Turner said: "We're planning for 2010 whether in Bridgend or Newport, we will be in Super League. We are looking at all of our options."

Speculation suggests that the move could have something to do with the feasibility of moving to a new stadium.

Leighton Samuel has hinted that the move is linked to the new application for a Super League license. The Brewery Field itself doesn't meet required long-term criteria whilst Rodney Parade, by contrast, has a slightly bigger capacity, better facilities and is due to have undergone significant redevelopment by beginning of the 2010 season.

The club have always planned to build their own 15,000-capacity home at Bridgend's Island Farm development - but a move to Newport perhaps indicates that any move to the new stadium will be delayed; even if the club have insisted that the long-term plan is to "come back to Bridgend" in a shiny new ground.

Do reports of a move to Newport concern you? Will it offer the club a smaller or larger catchment area to attract fans? Will it inconvenience you? Join in the debate by posting a comment below.