Whitehaven directors are confident they will get the club through the current troubled financial times and to the end of the season.

More importantly, they believe brighter times are ahead, despite the disappointment of not reaching a deal to complete a takeover deal.

The board met the players at the Recreation Ground to assure them plans were in place to see the club through until the end of the League One season.

In a statement the board said: “We appreciate and understand the frustration of all stakeholders following this week’s failed takeover by Stuart Harvey and his consortium.

“We are aware that some feel that this statement is late in coming, however, it is not much more than 24 hours since final confirmation was received that the takeover was definitely off.

“Wednesday night was the earliest chance the board had to convene and respond officially.

"The board and the consortium would like it known that both parties are disappointed that a deal could not be reached in the time required and they part amicably.

“The heads of terms that was signed at the open fans meeting included a confidentially agreement that is binding for both parties and, as such, what has already been released regarding the finer details of the takeover is all that anyone can, and have agreed, to say.

“The board has been working on a plan for the club to continue this season and future seasons and fully believe that what is being worked on, along with the terrific work of supporters of late, will see Whitehaven RLFC continue.

“The board have met with the players to assure them of this and the next step. The players are raring to go again on Sunday, to show the fans just how much the club means to every one of them.

“Going forward, the club will still need the backing of the fans through the turnstiles on matchdays.

"The atmosphere at the Bradford game was amazing and, not only did this help the club’s financial situation and impress the members of the consortium who attended, but also gave the players a massive lift in what was difficult circumstances and against a quality Bradford Bulls team.

“The board will be releasing details of future plans as and when possible, but would like to put on record our thanks to Stuart Harvey and his consortium for the work they have put in over the past three weeks trying to get the deal done.

“The club cannot stress enough that we need the fantastic support we have received over the past three weeks to continue to show that Haven can and will be a force to be reckoned with.

“Even with all that has gone on this year, the team is still in with a good shot at promotion, which shows what quality we have on that pitch.

“The board will endeavour to release information as soon as is practically possible as to the future plans for taking the club forward.”

Whitehaven entertain Keighley Cougars on Sunday in a game between two sides right on the fringes of the play-offs.