Points penalty for reinstated Crusaders

Crusaders have been given official permission to play in Super League next season, but will start on minus four points.

The RFL's board of directors reinstated the Wrexham-based club last night, but imposed the points deduction for going into administration. "While we are disappointed with the points deduction, this is fantastic news for the club, the town and the future of rugby league in North Wales," said their chairman, Ian Roberts.

Earlier in the day, the administrators running the club warned they would have to sack the players, because there was no money to pay them. That threat receded and the club is now expected to be out of administration next week.

Crusaders' latest drama comes at the end of a week when they have made two key appointments – Rod Findley as chief executive and Barry Eaton as assistant coach.