Quote: meast "I think obviously, the idea of the 8's was that all or most teams by the split would have something to play for and realistically be able to make the top 4 at the end.
This year and last year have shown that this isn't the case, whilst it is good for the game to see different teams challenging for the top 4, i don't think the idea of playing 7 dead rubbers for a lot of the teams not increase interest.
This year, my team were challenging for the top 8's and ultimately the top 4, this year we are likely to be in the middle 8's, so at least there, there is something to look forward to, for the teams 4-8 there will be little to attract interest in those games which are perceived as dead rubbers.'"
I don't think it will always be the case, it's just coincidence that 4 teams have pulled away two years running.
Also, i still think there is lots to play for as far as the top 4 are concerned as home advantage for the semi final is huge imo.