Widnes link up with North Wales Crusaders

Widnes have announced a partnership with newly-promoted Championship side North Wales Crusaders.

The Vikings were linked with Workington last season, with several of their squad turning out for the Cumbrian outfit as part of the dual-registration system.

Chief executive James Rule said: “Last year we had a fantastic partnership with Workington. In reality the geographical distance between our Clubs made things a little restrictive, whereas the Crusaders already train on the i Pitch at the Stadium and utilise our gym and performance centre.

“Following their promotion it therefore felt like a natural fit to enter into this partnership. I wish to thank Workington for their support and wish them the best of luck next season. We now look forward to developing a great partnership with North Wales Crusaders.”

Widnes replaced the old Crusaders club in Super League ahead of the 2012 season, following the collapse of the Welsh franchise, but rugby league wasn’t lost in Wrexham, as the North Wales club was started up in Championship 1.

The old Celtic Crusaders club were handed a Super League licence ahead of the Vikings in 2008, for the 2009 season.

Crusaders Head Coach Clive Griffiths added: “Using the facilities at Widnes has so far helped us have a successful 2013 campaign and again allowed us a great start to pre season and we need to keep up that momentum.

“Denis and I are on the same wave length when it comes to loan and dual registrations. It’s going to be a long, physical and demanding season and a professional partnership with Widnes will certainly prove an added advantage.”