THE rallying cry to fans of York rugby league has gone out again - and this time it's louder than ever.

All supporters are urged to attend a public meeting to be held at Huntington Stadium on Monday, starting at 7.30pm.

If there's a packed house, it could boost York RL's bid to blast off into the big-time. On the other hand, if this meeting proves unsuccessful, it could well signal the end of the new club before it has begun.

As reported by the Evening Press, the club has won admission to the Rugby Football League only on the condition it can raise start-up capital of £75,000 before August 31, while Roger Dixon and Steve Ferres, to be installed as chairman and chief executive respectively, have stressed the club's future was also dependent on it having £250,000 in the bank by next season.

And although they are confident the club has the potential to succeed, both might call it quits if this meeting does not generate sufficient interest.

Ferres explained: "When York Wasps folded fans packed out the crisis meeting. Monday's meeting is probably more important than that so we want to see as many people come down.

"If there's not a big crowd at the meeting, it would suggest there isn't enough interest to make this club a success and it might signal the end of the dream."

The Evening Press revealed this week that an unnamed Super League club had offered Ferres a high-ranked job, which he turned down in favour of sticking with York's bid to return to action.

The Press also believes Ferres' involvement has been a major factor behind the RFL's decision to sanction the new club, as he is widely respected in the British game.

However, he is effectively putting their credibility on the line by fronting the bid and if sufficient support does not come from the York public - starting with Monday's meeting - then he is unlikely to stay.

"We've got a vibrant city with a history of rugby league and with potential gates of 5,000 to 6,000 if we get into Super League," said Ferres.

"But if the support isn't there now, there won't be much point trying. We all have to do it together."

Monday's meeting will outline to fans how the club plan to raise the cash needed. As explained by the Press, that plan involves selling annual club memberships for £250, a price which includes a season ticket, match-day benefits and a package of financial benefits and discounts in and outside the club.

That package will be detailed at the meeting and ideas of ways to improve and add to those benefits will be discussed, as will all fund-raising ideas. There will also be a fans' forum for questions and answers. A short questionnaire will also be given to fans to outline their desires for the new club and make suggestions.

Updated: 10:27 Saturday, August 03, 2002