WASPS winger Leigh Deakin has called on the Rugby Football League to help the club get out of its crisis, writes Peter Martini.

Deakin reckons the RFL must be able to do something to help the club survive. "I can't believe the RFL can't offer any help," he said.

"Over the years they've invested lots into teams like London Broncos, Gateshead and Paris, so why can't they help out a traditional team like York, who have strong grass roots and a long history?

"Surely the RFL can't sit back and let this happen."

In the meantime, Deakin is not giving up. "There is a team and a club worth saving here," he said.

"It's a crying shame what has happened here but I'm not giving up on it at all. I still hope we can get sorted out.

"I know we haven't been doing too well as regards results but we've got fantastic team spirit and I'm convinced we were turning the corner on the pitch," he said.

"More importantly, the club which has been going more than 100 years can not be allowed to die. I feel the directors have pulled the plug too soon, too quickly. We must sort something out."

Deakin backed the formation of a supporters' trust. "If the fans could help it would be fantastic," he said. "I would like to think City fans could help too. I know I for one put my hand into my pocket when collections were being held for City."

Updated: 10:31 Saturday, March 23, 2002