...of seasons past? Put it this way, Salford, Cas and KR came out of SL and kept their teams so obviously dominated. This squad has been built from the ground up so I'd say we're up there on merit.

We've won seven matches. Thirteen to go, and then some. Put the champagne back in the cellar and let's assess this season in September.

Very true but I think we look in a strong(er) position than anyone has. I'm not trying to get people's backs up, we haven't won anything yet (for years even). I was just wondering what people thought our chances were I guess.

Very very strong. We have the [ipotential [/ito run away with this league. I did think Widnes were the challenge but they're getting smashed at home tonight. Things certainly do look good.

I beg to differ When did we last lose the Infirmary Cup?

And the Inaugural Link Telecom challenge

Wish I agree but I see Barrow breathing down our neaks.

And the neak is not an easy place to breath down

I can certainly see us competing against all those teams & beating the Welsh Ozzies. Whilst we've kicked on, so have other teams in this league & for me, it's the most competative all round (just look at the Thunder v Donny score tonight)

Yes we are a better team as we play great suff.
I still cannot fathom out how Salford won the lot last year, they were a decent team but not great like the Hull KR team of 2006, they were the best all round NL team ever imo.
Celtic just did the basics right, typical lower grade Aussies, a bit boring.
We are similar to the Cas team of 2007 but even more entertaining.

The purists will say that we take too many risks with the ball and concede too many pooints without it. I couldn't give a damn as long as we win every game we play ! What a cracking team to watch ?

The opening question asked if 'Fax are better than us and the Reds.

Based on last season, Salford were 1, we were 2 and you were 3. But it was close.

So no, not considerably better but also not worse.

Add to that, your fine stadium and good support and I'd hope that the RFL listens to your MPs and brings you in to SL.

However, I imagine that they are not REALLY trying to get you in. Just trying to make a bit of populist capital before election time.

Widnes fans made (and occasionally still make) lots of noise about us stealing THEIR franchise spot.

What I heard, it was you and Leigh next in line. Here's hoping it comes off.

Oh one little point Fax4Life,

Not knocking 'Fax in any way, but our "typical boring Aussies" were putting CRICKET scores on much of NL1.

I believe, (contrary to many flat-capper's claims) that WE are there on merit (temporarily putting aside the Aussie army argument) and that our foundations are there (U18s just having become league champions by beating the previously unbeaten Leigh Miners 32-10).

We'll take some of the low-hanging fruit in SL later this year don't you worry. But would still be glad to see you guys in the mix with us in 2010. Perhaps then we could answer the opening questions.

You cant temporarily put aside the aussie argument. The RFL gave you a relaxed quota so you could finish second and they could justify your licence. IF fax or widnes had had the same quaota as you they would have finished above you. A team full of player of Ben Black standard would have been unstoppable!