Welsh clubs fight on in court

The row between the Welsh Rugby Union and two of its senior clubs was yesterday put on hold for another 13 days. Cardiff and Ebbw Vale have taken the WRU to court over the Union's request to hold a "golden share" in each of its top eight clubs - a 51 per cent interest in the affairs of the clubs that are directly affected by the national cause.

While four clubs have agreed to sign up, Cardiff and Ebbw Vale went to the High Court in London yesterday to start legal proceedings which were adjourned until a full hearing on 26 June.

The WRU said: "The Union considers the application for injunctions to be misconceived and they will be vigorously contested. However, between now and the June hearing the WRU has agreed that it will take no steps to expel the clubs or to nominate any club outside the Premier Division to participate in the Heineken Cup or European Conference."

Cardiff claimed their action was in the best interests of Welsh rugby. In a statement, the club said: "It is not a step we have taken lightly. We were forced to do so in order to protect the very existence of Cardiff RFC and the interests of our employees, players, shareholders and supporters."