Can the Crusaders have a decent year?

CRUSADERS

Coach: Brian Noble (since October 2009).

Captain: to be announced.

Previous finish: 14th.

2009 leading scorers: tries - Luke Dyer and Lincoln Withers both 6; goals - Josh Hannay 24; points - Josh Hannay 56.

Biggest Super League win: 25-12 (v Salford, 2009).

Biggest Super League defeat: 68-0 (v Leeds, 2009).

Ground and capacity: Racecourse Ground, 10,000.

2009 average attendance (at Brewery Field): 3,603 (up 1,674 on National League).

Record Super League attendance: 6,351 (v St Helens, 2009).

In: Nick Youngquest (Gateshead), Gareth Raynor, Jamie Thackray, Tommy Lee (all Hull), Michael Witt (Otago RU), Tony Martin, Frank Winterstein (both Wakefield), Vince Mellars (Auckland Vulcans), Rocky Trimarchi (Wests Tigers).

Out: Chris Beasley, Darren Mapp (both Queensland Central Comets), Paul Ballard (Blackpool), Neil Budworth, Josh Hannay (both MacKay Cutters, NSW), Marshall Chalk (Gold Coast Titans), Mark Dalle Cort (Northern Pride), Geraint Davies (Coventry RU), Tony Duggan, Damien Quinn (both Lezignan), Aled James (released), Mark Lennon (Burleigh Bears), Matty Smith, Stephen Tyrer (both Salford), David Tangata Toa (returned to Australia), Jace Van Dijk (Easts Tigers).

Player to watch: Michael Witt - a goalkicking half-back who is looking to resurrect his career after an unsuccessful switch of codes.

Rising star: Lloyd White - stand-off or loose forward who seized his chance at first-team level at the end of last season and also caught the eye playing for Wales.

Odds to finish top: 150-1.

Prospects: The Crusaders have the most high-profile coaching staff but they have had precious little time to assemble a team and they are sure to struggle.

Prediction: 13th.

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