Rugby League: Crusaders cup revenge clash

Apr 6 2008 by Our Correspondent, Wales On Sunday

CELTIC CRUSADERS begin a four-match tour of some of rugby league’s most famous names when they tackle Halifax today (3pm).

The Northern Rail Cup clash is the first of a quartet of tough away trips, taking in Whitehaven and Widnes before the Challenge Cup clash with Super League champions Leeds Rhinos at Headingley on April 18.

The Crusaders beat Halifax 26-18 at home last week and this provides a chance of revenge for defeat in the same competition last season.

Terry Martin, who broke his leg last week, is replaced by Jamie I’Anson in an 18-man squad. Luke Dyer is still injured.

The Crusaders have been boosted by the creation of a Colts side, which will play in the Co-operative Conference National, coached by former Cardiff Demons and Newport Titans player Dan Clements. Most of the squad have come through the Welsh Conference, complemented by Frenchman Philippe Gardent and Lewis Mills, who has been playing for the University of Glamorgan.

“The formation of our own academy side is a very significant step in our long-term development as a club,” said first team coach John Dixon.

“This will be the first opportunity for the boys to put in place the things that they have been working on with Dan.

“They’ve been training since September and I know they are all looking forward to their first match together.”

CELTIC CRUSADERS (from): T Duggan, P Ballard, J Hannay, M Dalle Cort, M Lennon, A Blackwood, I Webster, J Van Dijk, D Tangata-Toa, N Budworth, J James, C Beasley, D Mapp, D Quinn, N Wyatt, A Summers, J I’Anson, G Dean.