Agree, the skill on show is fantastic. I wonder if we could use 7s to develop our players skill at junior level instead. In Brazil, most juniors play futsal (sp?) rather than football as it requires more skills, then make the transition to full size football later.

They did, in 2002 along with Bradford. They were eliminated in the first round, whereas Bradford (who had been stuffed by 50 points at home the night before by Saints) went on to win.

I reckon a super league team would easily win that tournament. Sam Tomkins would have a field day.

Despite some good skill on show, it is mainly about pace and seeing a gap. That is it.

An Usain Bolt could play sevens.

Like Odem says its simply down to there being only 7 players on the pitch. There's some pace, but very little above average skill on show. Train a half decent amateur RL side to pro-fitness levels and they'd do just fine in it. 7's is meaningless in terms of skill.

There is value in that. Junior coaching is now orientated around small sided games. I understand the RFL have plans for the u18 and u20 leagues to run as 9 a side for part of their season. We do so in the midlands junior RL for part of our season.

It takes far more skill to break down a 13 man defence.