North Wales Crusaders have made plenty of new signings

Crusaders, under new ownership since earlier this month, are preparing for their first home clash since April 5.

Back then, Crusaders lost out 56-18 during their match-up with Midlands Crusaders and next up is Sunday’s encounter with Salford at Colwyn Bay’s Stadiwm Eirias.

A big crowd is anticipated and supporters will get the opportunity to take a look at plenty of new faces.

Hooker Jamie Billsborough, who played during the team’s return to action at Goole Vikings earlier this month, is amongst the recent additions.

So too is second row Will McArdle and Germany international Charlie Tetley.

Tetley, who has played four internationals, came through the ranks at Wakefield Trinity and he also includes Hunslet and Oulton Raiders amongst his other clubs.

Crusaders have also confirmed that Will Fernley has signed with the club until the end of the year.

The hooker has previously turned out for Salford City Roosters and Kincumber Colts. Whilst he was at Roosters, Fernley was named as the club’s young player of the year in 2024.

Eoin Bowie, who can play in either the back row or middle, is another new addition to the North Wales squad.

As with Tetley, Bowie is a Germany international and he counts Keighley Cougars, Huddersfield, Nambour Crushers and Miles Devils amongst his previous clubs.

The taekwondo black belt is sure to make his mark amongst the North Wales Crusaders’ faithful.

Meanwhile, former Chester Gladiators and Woolston Rovers player Matt Lightfoot will now get an opportunity to show what he can do with the Crusaders.

“I only started playing rugby when I was 17, proving it’s never too late to fall in love with the game,” he told the club.

Now aged 21, Lightfoot - who is working towards his black belt in kickboxing - is keen to make a positive impression with the North Wales team, playing in the centre or on the wing.

Wales U19s international Evan Rowlands has committed himself to North Wales Crusaders for the remainder of the season.

The 19-year-old centre represented his country at this year’s European Championships, in France.

Also making his way into the North Wales ranks is 26-year-old Matty Bailey.

The former Brighouse Rangers favourite has previously toured Australia, while he has Welsh roots through his grandfather.

Kick-off against Salford on Sunday will be 3pm and before the game, the club has organised a fans’ forum.

It will offer an opportunity for supporters to get up to speed on the work the club, under new head coach Sean Long, has been carrying out over the last few weeks.