This one statement shows the completely absurd situation that licensing has produced

Well I'm used to watching rugby at Belle Vue so it's like a palace for us

Playing within the rules doesn't get you anywhere in RL , making your own rules is the way to go

Agreed. Depends how it is weighted too as Cas are better than Wakefield in most of the other areas too so it would be grossly unfair if the stadium was judged on its own for those at risk without taking into consideration other factors.

For instance: is onfield performance better or worse than modern facilities, what about commercial aspects, youth development etc.

If all three have stadia of equivalent standard, then yes, Salford should be bottom of the pile. Wouldn't say Wakefield are equal to Cas but that's just my perspective. Cas have better commercial portfolio and better youth to first team ratio. Average on field performance is equal, however, we're more consistent.

That's all fine and good, but that wasn't the point of the thread was it. So who would be your 14?


It's not just a case of Hull taking one for the team. KR don't want to play there.


You've already answered that one!


Mistype or misread?
I guess "ni" can look like an "m".

I think your been selective about the criteria your using. I wouldn't value commercial portfolio as high as your self, investment is exactly that, as long as you can attract it. I'm pretty sure in monetary value Wakefield will attract as much sponsorship as Cas. Both clubs been of a similar profile I'm sure investment is of similar value. Not sure about youth to first team ratio, I don't really think there is much in it at all. In the last 2 or 3 years we had had several players come from our Academy probably very little difference between us and Cas. Both clubs having a small budget that kind of thing is forced on you. Don't forget our excellent community programme that was praised by the RFL in the last franchise award, something we lead the way in.

Regarding the stadium, I think the rfl will put a lot of weight to it. Lets consider both Wakey and Cas have had warning letters about promises made in 2008. A ground that meets criteria will by of massive importance.

This thread is for who will miss out in the next round of franchise, not where you think your team will finish in the league tables

What about the huge catchment area of the Salford/Manchester conurbation?

is it really important? london is a massive catchment area but this does not mean quins are turning people away at the door.

it does not matter how many people live in manchester, the only relevant number is those interested in RL

According to Mr Lewis and the RFL it is and they make the decisions.I stand corrected but didn't Lewis say,after the 2008 Licence announcements, that the Salford/Manchester conurbation couldn't be ignored?Why will this view change next time?