Quins forced to cancel Crusaders friendly

Correspondent

Harlequins have cancelled their preseason match against Crusaders on Saturday at Rosslyn Park due to adverse weather conditions.

The decision was made after it became clear Crusaders RL would be unable to travel from North Wales to London due to the worst winter weather in decades.

The fixture was due to be the testimonial match for Harlequins winger Jon Wells, the first London player to be granted a testimonial year and one of only a handful of players to have featured in every year of Super League.

The club will now seek to hold an event later in the year to celebrate Jon’s contribution to Rugby League.

Harlequins head coach, Brian McDermott, said that whilst the cancellation is a disappointment, his side will be ready for the new Super League season:

“Whilst this is a huge disappointment for everyone at the club and Jon in particular, we have to work with the hand we have been dealt.

“This makes our match against London Skolars at the HAC next Friday our only preseason fixture; we expect a tough, competitive game and will be taking the match very seriously.

“The weather this year has put every other Super League club is in the same situation, so we will be as prepared as the next team when the new season starts.

“I’d like to thank Rosslyn Park for all their help in trying to put on this fixture.”

Brain Noble, Crusaders head coach, said: “It’s very disappointing that we weren’t able to play this game. I wish Jon all the best in his testimonial year; he is a consummate professional who is up there with the best on his day.”

Harlequins now focus their attentions towards the ETF Securities Capital Challenge on Friday 22nd January (1.45pm) when they play London Skolars at the HAC in central London. Tickets are available for £15 by calling 0208 888 4888.

Anyone who has purchased a ticket for Saturday’s match is entitled to a full refund from the ticket office. You should post your tickets by recorded delivery to the below address by 30th January and will receive your refund in due course.

If they choose not to request a refund after January 30th all ticket proceeds will go directly to the Jon Wells Testimonial fund.