Crusaders bring Rugby League to Rodney Parade
Crusaders move to Rodney Parade
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By Matt Hallam
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Friday, 21, Aug 2009 07:43
Rugby League is continuing its journey through Wales as the Celtic Crusaders plan to make the move from Bridgend to Newport.
Starting with this weekend's fixture with St. Helen's the crusaders will ply their trade at Rodney Parade, the home of Newport Gwent Dragons.
Rodney Parade will play host to at least ten Super League matches with the Crusaders also having an option to add a further two years to the deal.
However, the previously used Brewery Field in Bridgend has not seen the last of the Super League as they prepare to host one final fixture against the Huddersfield Giants early next month.
Plans are also in place for the Crusaders to move back down the M4 to Bridgend to a purpose built new stadium in the future.
Crusaders' chief executive Mike Turner said, "There were a number of grounds that we could have gone to, we've spoken to a number of clubs and Rodney Parade filled the criteria and ticked every box.
"Given Newport's location, hopefully we'll be able to persuade people to come from over the Severn Bridge as well as in Wales as we're the closest Super League team in the South West.
"Hopefully we can retain the fans who have supported the club from day one too. We are talking to Veolia Transport to arrange low price transport direct from Bridgend to Newport and back on match days."
The Crusaders supporters will be hoping the change in stadium can result in a change in fortunes for the Welshmen, who have picked up just two wins at home in the Super League this campaign.
Tom Powell