CELTIC Crusaders are taking a mixture of realism and ambition into tonight’s Carnegie Challenge Cup game with Leeds Rhinos.
The Bridgend-based side carry the hopes of South Wales into the fourth round tie at Headingley and the Crusaders Operations Manager Gerald McCarthy says there is a great feeling of anticipation throughout the club as they prepare to face the world’s top club side.
“Everyone’s been talking about this match since the fourth-round draw was made and the prospect of meeting Leeds Rhinos is a very exciting one for us,” said McCarthy, whose club have applied to join Super League next season.
“It’s tremendous for the club as we look to measure our development and it’s a fantastic opportunity to play the engage Super League Champions and the Carnegie World Club Champions.
“After the draw was made the phone didn’t stop ringing with Welsh media wanting our reaction to it.”
And McCarthy confirmed the Crusaders will be giving everything they have on the field when they run out against Leeds.
He also revealed the club will be drawing inspiration from another Welsh sporting success.
“We’ll certainly be looking to compete tonight and we’ve got confidence in our squad,” he added.
“Who would have thought that Cardiff City could have made it all the way to the FA Cup final at Wembley and we certainly have our own ambitions!”
