RFL reach Crusaders agreement

The RFL last night reached agreement in principle for Ian Roberts and Geoff Moss to resume ownership of Crusaders Rugby League Club allowing them now to proceed with an agreement to purchase the club from the administrator.

“We had a long and very productive meeting yesterday and reached agreement on all matters of substance,” said RFL Chief Executive Nigel Wood.

“Both Ian (Roberts) and Geoff (Moss) understand and actually agree with the need to deal properly with certain liabilities and to their credit have made provision to do so.

“The potential for Rugby League in North Wales is self-evident and the circumstances now exist for the club to flourish and succeed under Ian and Geoff s ownership.   

“With the Welsh national side qualifying for the 2011 Four Nations, and the South Wales Scorpions achieving success with a virtually fully home grown squad these are exciting times for Rugby League in Wales. The challenge for the Crusaders now is to build on a very encouraging first season.”

Ian Roberts, who will become Chairman of the club, added:

“We were always committed to the club and to the future of Rugby League in North Wales but we did need some clarification on some of the obligations facing the club going forward as a condition on re-entry.

“The meeting was very productive and we are excited about the potential of Super League in North Wales and our business plan will enable us to go forward with renewed enthusiasm.”

The clubs re-admission into the Engage Super League is subject to formal RFL Board Approval and the Board will also consider the issue of sporting sanctions at a later date.