Administrator apologises to Bradford Bulls players (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Administrator Brendan Guilfoyle apologises to Bradford Bulls players

6:37pm Tuesday 3rd July 2012 in Sport By Sports Desk

Brendan Guilfoyle has issued a statement about his scheduled meeting with Bulls players which did not go ahead this morning as originally planned.

Guilfoyle, partner at P&A Partnership and administrator at the club, said: “I had convened a meeting with the players for today.

“Late last night I decided to cancel it as I had no update for the players and told them to have a day off.

“Unfortunately it was too late for the message to get through by the time we contacted the captain, the players’ representatives and their solicitors.

“We have been in touch with the captain, Matt Diskin, to give a personal apology to him and his team-mates. I recognise how unsettling it was for the players.”

Guilfoyle said he had been overwhelmed by the turnout and support from fans at the Guide Post Hotel in Bradford last night, where an estimated 500 people turned up.

“I am sure the passion and tangible support offered by fans will play a significant part in any rescue,” he said.

“It has already had an effect. One businessman who had rejected any involvement rang me after the meeting and said he had changed his mind.

“He has now asked to look at the numbers, based on the loyalty and support shown by fans.”

The deadline for the administration has been extended to Tuesday, July 10 but Guilfoyle said there can be no further extension unless a purchaser is found.

This will enable the Bulls’ home match against London Broncos to go ahead on Sunday.

Guilfoyle also confirmed the statement made last night that there is no conspiracy to allow current directors to buy the club cheaply.

“I cannot state strongly enough that I am not speaking to any former directors or shareholders, or anyone who has ever acted as a director, about buying the club,” he said.

“I am desperately looking for ways for this club to survive and genuinely looking for purchasers.

“I would urge Bradford’s business community to rally round and see how they can save this club.

“This city should be proud of its fan base, who are a real asset to anyone buying Bradford Bulls.”