Celtic Crusaders

Last updated : 22 May 2009 By Michael Morris

Summer is upon us and the opening of the new and imaginatively named Cardiff City Stadium is still many weeks away – so it’s time for all South Walian sports fans to kick back, spend weekends following the wife around Ikea and keep a firm eye on the fortunes of Glamorgan County Cricket Club?

Right? Well, not necessarily. South Wales is now the home of a Super League club – The Celtic Crusaders.

Though the Crusaders’ season started way back in February with a defeat to World Champions, the Leeds Rhinos, rugby league continues throughout the summer and provides an ideal sporting alternative for City fans seeking that weekend sporting buzz. Games are currently played at the Brewery Field, Bridgend – just a short journey away from the Welsh capital – and the club are already attracting support from across the South Wales region.

Rugby League is a superb sport; providing great entertainment, a terrific atmosphere and top banter with away supporters. Add that with the freedom to drink on the terraces and you’re onto a winner.

The Crusaders, formed in 2006, have also been onto a winner lately – picking up their first, long-awaited Super League win on Sunday with a stunning 30-24 victory away to the Bradford Bulls. 60 or so travelling supporters revelled in the win and will be hoping to build on that success for this weekend’s home clash against French outfit the Catalan Dragons.

For all your latest Crusaders news, fixtures and views; plus the usual messageboard banter; then check out www.CelticCrusadersRLC.com

Chris O'Brien.