Blackwood celebrates his second try against Harlequins

The National League One side, who fielded seven new signings, ran in five tries and conceded just one.

Anthony Blackwood crossed twice, with Paul Ballard, Chris Vitalini and Damien Quinn adding the other scores.

"It's important to play against quality opposition like this in pre-season," said Crusaders coach John Dixon.

"We've played against a Super League side and not only won and scored some wonderful tries but only conceded one try.

"What's also important is the depth of our squad was demonstrated. I'm very pleased with the youngsters who turned out, players like Tom Burnell, Chris Vitalini and Ben Flower.

"Ben was playing his first ever game of rugby league was terrific, very strong and carried the ball well.

"If they can go out there and play against Super League opposition and be as technically good and as physically committed as they were, then the season bodes well for us."

The Crusaders open their season next Friday with a visit to Sheffield Eagles in the Northern Rail Cup.

Harlequins begin their season on 9 February against Wigan Warriors in the Super League, and coach Brian McDermott said he was not too disheartened by his side's defeat in Bridgend.

"It wasn't a disappointing defeat at all," said McDermott. "This was a friendly, a trial and we trialled a few plays.

"I've actually gone in there and told a few of the players that some of the stuff they did out there was very good.

"We were poor in some areas but that was probably more to do with Celtic Crusaders being good offensively with the ball."

Celtic Crusaders: Tony Duggan, Paul Ballard, Luke Dyer, Mark Dalle Cort, Anthony Blackwood, Mark Lennon, Jace Van Dijk, Gareth Dean, Neil Budworth, David Tangata-Toa, Jamie I'Anson, Darren Mapp, Chris Beasley.
Subs (all used): Rod Peake, Chris Vitalini, Philippe Gardent, Geraint Davies, Ian Webster, Damien Quinn, Aaron Summers, Terry Martin, Ben Flower, Tom Burnell.