League: Warriors legend Monty Betham launches crowdfunding bid to buy club

Former Warriors captain Monty Betham hosting boxing coverage for SKY TV. Photo/Photosport

Fancy a share of your favourite under-performing NRL team? Here's your chance to own the NZ Warriors ...

As the today's deadline approaches on Auckland businessman Paul Davys and his bid to buy the Warriors off current owner Eric Watson, club legend Monty Betham has launched an alternative crowdfunding proposal among fans through social media.

"No-one loves the Vodafone Warriors more than us - the fans," he has announced on his Facebook page. "SO WHY DON'T WE BUY IT?"

"Everywhere I go, loyal diehards are very vocal and share your thoughts with me about the club that WE all love. It's time to make your thoughts count.

"Please SHARE this post and show your support for us to take the next steps to try and crowdfund the purchase of #OurWarriors.

"Let's own the colours we have running through our veins and wardrobes! I'm serious, people!!!!"

Watson has put a $NZ20 million price tag on the team that he has owned since 2000, for much of that time, in partnership with Sir Owen Glenn.

Last week, Davys launched his bid to purchase the club, but is believed to be $NZ5 million short in his offer.

"That may seem like a lot, but considering there are almost half a million Warrior supporters on Facebook alone, if only 200,000 fans put in 10 bucks each, the club could be owned by US - THE FANS," insists Betham, a former Warriors captain with 101 appearances under his belt.

The Vodafone Warriors Facebook page had 477,769 this morning and have about 17,000 season memberships.