Gateshead ‘hurt & disrespected’ by Crusaders offer

North Wales Crusaders have caused a stir ahead of this weekends game with Gateshead Thunder, by offering FREE hospitality if they lose the game.

The newly formed Crusaders have rose out of the ashes of the doomed SuperLeague franchise this season, and have caught the eye with some good performances, winning three games and securing three losing-bonus points in Championship 1 so far. 

That confidence has seen them come up with the offer of a hospitality box for 10 people with a buffet and waitress service for £199, but this fee will be completely waived, should they lose to Gateshead Thunder, who are without a win against professional opposition in 59 games – or 27 months.

A spokesperson for Gateshead Thunder said: ‘It is a pretty cheap way of doing business & introducing yourself to first time opponents in the Rugby League family. We are Hurt & Disrespected by this promotion. There is ways and means of ‘talking’ about a game, but disrespecting your opponents has never been one of the ways in Rugby League.’

Crusaders Chief Executive Jamie Thomas said: ‘North Wales Crusaders are not in any way trying to be disrespectful to our friends at Gateshead Thunder. We gave all hospitality away free for our game against Barrow, and £50 boxes for our game against Whitehaven. We work hard on promotions to fill the ground, including 5,000 free kids tickets that have gone out this week as well.’

Thunder Head Coach Kevin Neighbour said: ‘Thats the team talk sorted. It’s great motivation for my boys. I’ve just booked three tables!’ 

North Wales Crusaders v Gateshead Thunder kicks off at 3pm on Sunday 8th July. To book or for further information, contact Hanna Clarke on 08432 896407 or email hanna.clarke@rusadersrfl.com