Crusaders welcome expansion plan

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The Bridgend-based Crusaders, flying high in their first season in National League One, are thought to be among the front-runners for an additional spot along with Salford and Widnes. Leigh, Featherstone, Halifax and Toulouse are also in contention.

Crusaders chief executive David Thompson said: "When the club was formed we were led to believe there would be an opportunity to get into Super League and we are delighted that opportunity looks like it is going to present itself."

The RFL have received 19 applications for Super League from 2009-11 and a decision on the final 14 is expected next month, although a date has not yet been confirmed.

Each of the 12 existing clubs are expected to be included, leaving seven other clubs needing to impress on a wide range of criteria including crowds, solvency, stadium facilities and junior development.

Thompson added: "It is going to expand and we are in with a shout along with 18 other teams.

"It was always our understanding that it was going to go to 14. I would have thought that all 19 applicants are very strong and that bodes very well for the sport.

"We can't comment on other teams but we have a lot of confidence in our bid. We have only been going two-and-a-half years but we are very happy with what we have achieved."

The Crusaders were formed in 2005 and are currently third in NL1 having won promotion last year. They also reached this season's Northern Rail Cup semi-finals.

Super League last featured 14 clubs in 1999 but reverted to its original level of 12 after the demise of Gateshead and Sheffield, who merged with Hull and Huddersfield respectively. Both clubs later reformed at a lower level.