'Aboveus...'
Where are you? Seen any news coverage? Read any views? Heard any comments? Thought about any of them? I do so hope it is old news by tomorrow but the media are delighting in this opportunity, given them on a plate, to paint the game as simply one of sheer thuggery for thick Northern idiots who like a good biff. Yes - it is a tough sport! To me it is primarily a game of the greatest skill and athleticism, with a bit of 'Biff' now and then, and that image was gradually being accepted by the rest of the country. BUT-it is the clear malicious violence and evil intent of the second punch that is the cause of the glee of the sports writers for what it has given them, and which has brought the game into such negative focus. The madness of a few sick 'fans' on Twitter etc is also, ridiculously, being highlighted as evidence that RL fans are all nutters. The 'punishment' does not reflect the fact that had it occurred on anything other than the grass patch of OT, or even a few feet away in the stands, he would have been arrested and charged with a criminal offence. Families staying away? Of course they won't. Sponsors withdraw? Of course not. However, I
am unhappy that kids had to watch a punch with such evil intent taking place, especially being carried out by one who supposedly stands as a role model and in the showcase of the RL year. And I am right to be.
