SEAN LONG hailed the massive occasion as North Wales Crusaders marked their return home.
For the first time since the club came under new ownership, North Wales were able to play at their Eirias Stadium base, with Salford providing the opposition.
Crusaders are continuing their development following a difficult spell on and off the field and it was Salford who ran out 86-0 victors on the day.
Crusaders’ head coach Long said: “Firstly, I just want to celebrate what was a fantastic day for the club, a packed Eirias with lots of new and old faces around the place creating a special atmosphere and once again emphasising that rugby league is alive and kicking in North Wales.
“I want to personally thank the fans and everyone that contributed to creating a special atmosphere.
“The Salford club and spectators were a huge part of it and I can’t thank them enough for their contributions and words of support that I personally received from so many of their supporters, players and staff.
“It really was a celebration of rugby league for both clubs.”
Salford took the lead in the sixth minute as Brad Dwyer crossed for the opening try of the afternoon and this was converted by Kieran Dixon.
In the 11th minute, former Crusader Toby Hughes stretched Salford’s advantage with his unconverted try. Hughes departed Cru for Widnes Vikings last November and he has since made the move to Salford.
A further unconverted try came through Joe Hartley in the 20th minute, while Dixon did add the extras to Hughes’ second try four minutes later.
Prior to this, Crusaders’ had a great opportunity to claim their first try, but the ball was spilled close to the opposition line.
Salford ended the half with three additional tries, including a hat-trick score from Hughes, leaving them 42-0 ahead at the interval.
Salford continued on the front foot in the second half, with further tries coming from Hartley, Callum Green, Danny Lynch and Fin Yates, while Cru’s Will Furnley was sent off for a dangerous tackle.
Long added: “Another tough game, however lots more lessons learned. This is week four essentially since we reformed with a brand new squad.
“Sunday answered lots of questions in terms of what is required going forward, so hopefully in the coming weeks, we will build further in key areas on and off the field.”
Crusaders have announced that long-standing volunteer and supporter Conrad Anderson has been appointed interim general manager until the end of the season.
In this part-time role, Anderson will work closely with the local community, supporters, volunteers, partners and shareholders, while helping to build strong foundations for the future of the club.
He will also act as a communication bridge between supporters and chairman Jamie El-kaleh.
Anderson told the club’s website: “This club means everything to me. North Wales Crusaders is more than just a rugby league club - it’s a family and a community.
“Our supporters are the heartbeat of this club, and I will give absolutely everything I have to help drive us forward. I want fans to feel proud, connected and excited about the future again.
“This club has been through difficult times, but the passion is still here, the fight is still here, and together we can build something really special.”
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