Hornets pull plug on Autumn invitational
DOUBTS OVER INTEREST IN COMPETITION DESPITE £250,000 PRIZE POOL
ROCHDALE have confirmed they will not be taking part in the Autumn invitational competition announced by the RFL last week.
After the Betfred Championship and League 1 campaigns were declared null and void, the governing body invited teams to register their interest in competing for part of a £250,000 prize pool.
However, Hornets have been one of the first to confirm they will not take part – and there are serious doubts concerning the level of interest in the competition.
Leigh owner Derek Beaumont has called for his club to be awarded Toronto’s spot in Super League, indicating his club’s ambitions are above aiming for a title that would not bring about promotion to the top flight.
On Twitter, Beaumont offered the Wolfpack access to any six Centurions players to replace those with visa issues - and said he would pay their wages in full throughout.
“What’s stopping you now?” asked the outspoken owner. “If you don’t want to take my offer then step down and let Leigh Centurions take your place. You can have it back next year if you’re still going.”
Featherstone Rovers have also expressed an interest in taking up the Super League spot vacated by the Wolfpack’s withdrawal from this year’s competition, but it is understood that the plan remains to proceed with 11 teams.
While Super League returns behind closed doors this weekend, the financial implications of doing so have been deemed too severe for the clubs below the top flight.
It is extremely difficult to return safely without compromising the club’s financial footing Rochdale Hornets statement
“The current restrictions on returning to play coupled with the ongoing cost implications means it is extremely difficult to return safely without compromising the club’s financial footing,” said a statement from the Rochdale board, explaining their decision to decline the invite to participate in the Autumn competition.
“Whilst the opportunity to compete later in the year is appealing, it does not support the club’s ambition to challenge for League 1 promotion.
“The financial implications associated with returning to play have not changed and the players’ welfare and readiness is not conducive to playing a friendly competition.”
“We wish to reassure supporters that our ambition has not changed, your club must be ready for 2021 and we have positioned the club to deal with the 2020 challenges with your continued support.”
The moves to prepare the club for 2021 have continued with new deals agreed with four key members of Matt Calland’s squad.
Forward Jordan Syme and fullback Sam Freeman have each agreed to remain at the Crown Oil Arena for next season, while the Sheridan brothers have also signed new deals.
Declan and Lewis each joined from local amateur side Rochdale Mayfield - where they were coached by Calland - and featured in all four of the club’s fixtures prior to the cancellation of the season.