As widely expected, Fax missed out when Rugby Football League boss Richard Lewis announced the make up of next season's new look 14 team top tier.

The Shay outfit had been one of 19 clubs who had applied for a place at the game's top table via the RFL's controversial new licensing system.
In the end, the 12 existing Super League clubs all clung to their status, with the final two places going to Salford and Celtic Crusaders.

Clay said he was "disappointed" to miss out, but was realistic enough to admit there was plenty of work to do if Fax wanted to be considered genuine front runners when the next round of applications comes round in 2011.

"We have made some massive improvements this year, both on and off the field, and those will continue over the next three years," said Clay.
"The immediate aim now is to make the Grand Final this season and win it.

"Beyond that, there is a lot of work to do to - on the scholarship, the stadium, the business side of the club and making sure the attendances continue to rise.

"We have to make sure we are the strongest National League club in 2011."