Bedford Tigers’ application to be the new side in the RFL professional setup has been unsuccessful as the Rugby Football League confirmed Goole Vikings will be the newest side to join RFL League One.
The Vikings beat Bedford and Anglian Vipers to the coveted spot that now sees them go professional in the third tier of English rugby league, two steps below the Super League.
In March, the RFL confirmed plans to reorganise the professional structure, resulting in three tiers of twelve teams, with one additional spot becoming available to complete the line up.
Bedford Tigers, led by Rob Ashton, put forward their case for inclusion at an event at the RFL headquarters at the Etihad Complex in Manchester in August.
Not the end
Posting on their Facebook page, Bedford Tigers said: “This won’t be the end of our journey or pursuit of professionalism”.
“For now, we await feedback on our application before taking our next steps.”
Reaction from Tigers fans and those of the Bedford sporting community labelled the decision “short sighted” and “narrow minded”.
“In the name of expansion, lets have another M62 corridor team. [It] defies any logic”, said another.
There is a consolation prize for Ashton at least, the Tigers stalwart has been nominated for the 2024 Volunteer of the Year award as part of the RFL Community Volunteer Awards, gaining over 100 nominations.
Bedford Tigers’ rugby league season ended with a Southern Conference League Shield Playoff semi final defeat at North Herts Crusaders, the Tigers falling 34-18 in what has been described as a “frustrating” season on the pitch.
