SEAN LONG has been in wheeling and dealing mode ahead of new-look North Wales Crusaders’ second run-out in the Championship.
There’s been a welcome week off for the revamped club ahead of Sunday’s away day to tackle Batley Bulldogs.
It is Long’s second away match as Cru head coach and he has been strengthening the squad since the 80-0 loss versus Goole Vikings a fortnight ago.
Connor Terrill, who was on loan at North Wales Crusaders back in 2021, has made a return to the region, counting the likes of Barrow, Workington and Villeneuve Leopards as former clubs.
Further new additions include Ben Fisher, Lewis Holgate and Dom Horne, who is to be appointed as captain.
While one door opens, though, another closes and Long said: “We have ended up short at half back. I have been trying to sort out the half back situation.”
That will be something the head coach hopes to complete ahead of the trip to Batley, while a positive training session amongst the new recruits took place in the week.
“We met up on Wednesday as well,” added Long, who is looking to get a few more players through the door ahead of the next spot of action.
“It was the first one and it’s a case of spending restrictions we’re under, we’ve got to be mindful of the minimum wage.”
Callum Lowe, Jayden Billy and Matt Bailey are further potential additions, while the signing of experienced loose forward Horne has increased Cru’s options.
“Dom Horne has offered us a bit more balance,” added Long, who has been appointed head coach through to the end of the campaign.
“I understand them a bit more. I know where they should be playing rather than a guess.”
Weekend Championship action gets underway this evening, with Newcastle Thunder hosting Goole Vikings and Midlands Hurricanes at Oldham. Front-runners London Broncos travel to Sheffield Eagles on Sunday.
Other fixtures: Barrow v Hunslet; Dewsbury v Workington; Halifax v Salford; Rochdale v Swinton; Whitehaven v Keighley.
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