Featherstone Rovers announce five-figure surplus from 2019 accounts

IN THE BLACK: Featherstone Rovers have reported an operating surplus of over £40,000 from the year ending December 2019. Picture: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com.

The five-figure surplus came after Rovers reached the 2019 Championship Grand Final against Toronto Wolfpack, meaning they achieved that feat while spending within their means.

The revelation will be welcome at Featherstone at a time when every penny will count after the 2020 campaign was cancelled due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Championship clubs may not be able to start the 2021 season until April, if supporters are still prohibited from attending fixtures, and Featherstone CEO Davide Longo is proud Rovers have been run in a "sustainable" fashion.

He said: “In an age where many clubs make significant losses or operate in an unsustainable way, we have taken steps not only to manage the club’s finances responsibly but also to reinvest wisely when extra income is generated.

“It was also rewarding that the club's on-field success in reaching the 2019 Betfred Championship Grand Final was achieved within our means.

"This surplus, plus the recent signings, have been made as a result of our club's sustainable business model and underlines our intent when the 2021 season will resume.

"It is not easy operating any rugby league club and these unprecedented times are certainly challenging so the sound financial footing we are on is a credit to all involved with the club, particularly our head of finance, Robin Knight.”