Crusaders saved to play Super League

Crusaders Limited has bought the Wrexham-based club's assets, and transferred players onto its payroll in a deal for an undisclosed sum.

The company is backed by Wrexham Village, the owners of the town's Racecourse Ground which the club shares with Wrexham FC. The team will be known as Crusaders RL from next season.

According to a statement, there are no planned changes to the playing squad or management team.

Celtic Crusaders' other staff have also been employed by the new firm, and supporters' season tickets will be honoured.

A winding-up petition against the club was dismissed at London's High Court on November 17.

The club went into administration on November 12, claiming inherited debt had "made the business untenable".

Joint-administrator Peter O'Hara said: "There was a high level of support and enthusiasm towards Super League rugby in its first season in Wrexham which exceeded the club's expectations, but previous debts and losses have hindered the club's ability to survive financially.

"We are confident that with the backing of the landlord of the ground, and with new working capital facilities the club will thrive at its Wrexham home."

Last month Crusaders released three non-playing members of staff, along with players out of contract.

The Welsh side had impressed on the field last season as they reached the Super League play-offs under coach Brian Noble.

Former Great Britain coach Noble took over from John Dixon when the Crusaders changed ownership, moving to Wrexham from Bridgend early in 2010 because of financial problems.

Noble has since stepped down and he has been replaced by Wales coach Iestyn Harris.