There''s a Sunday homecoming for North Wales Crusaders

New-look North Wales haven’t enjoyed a home match since a new ownership group took charge at Crusaders earlier this month.

Following away clashes against Goole Vikings and Batley Bulldogs, Crusaders are now looking forward to welcoming Salford to Colwyn Bay’s Eirias Stadium on Sunday.

“You can feel it. We have got great supporters,” said head coach Long, who will be in the role until the end of the season.

“I was with the women when we beat Crosfields and there were supporters there. There’s three supporters that came and watched training!”

It’s no surprise that fans are keen to witness the team in action, as it’s been a troubled campaign so far for last season’s League One champions.

Things are now looking far more positive on and off the pitch, though, after NW Rugby League 26 Limited received approval to take on the membership for the club until the end of the current season.

Membership is for the remainder of the 2026 season only, meaning that any future Cru participation is conditional on a comprehensive business plan being provided to the governing body before being admitted for the 2027 fixture list.

For Long, it’s been about putting together a squad of late and this task has also been developing nicely.

“We have got 18 players signed that I can think of,” he added. “I think we’re doing pretty well.”

It remains taking things week-by-week, which is the correct approach following a turbulent few months for the North Wales side.

“Gradually, there’s an under-current being built of a solid foundation,” added Long, who stressed that partnerships and more understanding amongst the players will continue to develop over the coming weeks.

“We have identified the areas that are in need of strengthening and we hope to be able to have these in place in time for Salford.”

Sunday is set to be a busy day for Crusaders’ supporters.

Ahead of the match-up with Salford, the club is organising a fans forum.

This is the first opportunity to get the club’s supporters together since the change in ownership and the forum will be taking place in the fan zone marquee at 1pm.

The event will give supporters an update on where the club currently stands, as well as provide an opportunity for everyone to have their say.

“We encourage all supporters to come along, ask questions, share their views, and be part of the conversation as we continue to move the club forward together,” said a North Wales statement.

There’s one other Championship match on Sunday, with leaders London Broncos at Hunslet.