IF the previous week saw the earthquake, the past seven days have provided the aftershock, several explo-sions and a fall-out.

Whatever the outcome, there is no doubting this is a momentous period in history of York Rugby League Club.

This was the week that was...

Sunday

Fans stage an incredible crisis meeting at Huntington Stadium to discuss ways of saving the Wasps following the previous week's news that the directors had folded the club.

More than 400 people turn up and pledge nearly £13,000 in cash to a supporters' fund, while players and backroom staff in attendance waive overdue wages. A provisional working party to look into forming a fans' trust is set up.

Monday

Optimism is high after vice-chairman Russell Greenfield reveals a deal with a mystery buyer was close. They still face a race against time to meet the Rugby Football League's deadline of 3pm Tuesday, but Greenfield is confident.

All four directors resign, paving the way for a take-over.

Tuesday

The last-ditch deal to save the Wasps collapses, hours before the 3pm deadline. RFL accept the club's resignation.

However, idea to see the club pull out of the mid-season National Cup but stay in the NFP for when that resumes in June is mooted by fans.

Wednesday

Defiant fans fight on to resurrect the club. They stage another meeting at Huntington Stadium. A supporters' trust working party is formed and plans to meet RFL to put forward their idea and see what is needed to make it possible.

York-born former Health Secretary Frank Dobson MP pledges his support.

The expected exodus begins as Mick Docherty becomes the first player to leave the Wasps following the confirmation of the club's collapse.

Thursday

Evening Press prints a pledge form for fans to offer money to the supporters' fund.

Coach Leo Epifania, no longer with a job in England, confirms his plans to return to Australia and has a farewell meeting with the players.

Former Wasps coach Stewart Horton offers his services if a coach was needed.

Leeds Rhinos chief executive Gary Hetherington offers his expertise to the working party.

Friday

York MP Hugh Bayley meets the supporters' trust working party and pledges his support.

Skipper Peter Edwards re-signs for Doncaster Dragons.

Saturday

Wasps player Leigh Deakin says he will stick by the club. Others, like Darren Crake and Andy Precious, might retire.

Mike Miller, an accountant, estimates it would cost just £40,000 for Wasps to see out the season under new proposals

Updated: 11:48 Saturday, March 30, 2002