On Saturday Crusaders Open Age host Edinburgh Eagles in Round 2 of the North East Rugby League Open Age competition. Unfortunately Crusaders had to sit out last week despite being raring to go. Edinburgh, however, got their season off to a good start with a win at home over Durham Demons.
Returning to the fold for Crusaders, having been posted away for a few years is Warren "Woz" Broadley. Whilst Tom Denham, Gary Dent, Billy Mansfield and Colin Rogers all make their Crusaders debut. Following in the foot steps of Timoci Tuisovivi, Amborosio Bani and Olly Bale, Matty White and Gabriel McGregor-Taylor make the step up from last years U16's to also make their Open Age debut.

The teams last met was in last years NERL Open Age Cup. On that occasion Crusaders made the journey north and played out a great game with Edinburgh managing to pull clear of the visitors in the final quarter. The bus journey back, however, was a great success!!!

On Saturday Crusaders will be expecting an Eagles side to lay down their aspirations of being within the top 3 in this seasons competition, however, Crusaders are more than slightly disgruntled to be predicted with a finishing berth of 6th and will be going out to upset the apple cart. Maintaining defensive shape will be vital for Crusaders with Eagles more than capable of getting behind the defensive line to lay a good platform for some exciting and pacey backs.

Crusaders would like to thank The Hanson Sports and Social for hosting us post match.

All spectators are welcome.