Hasn't there been record attendances for the first round? And the addition of games on terrestrial TV will only help build interest.

Another 6 to go.

Attendance numbers for this weekend suggests that you are ing in the wind.

Grand final attendances are going down, that’s what I meant. By witnessed, I meant it literally, people at the ground when it happens.

I see what you mean. They have dropped in recent years.

Is it down to interest waning, or external factors such as increased cost of living and a recession? Attendances dropped around 2008 when personal finances had to be tightened in a similar way, but then increased again when the recession ended. Afterall, a final day is an expensive day out for most people.

I believe there was record TV viewing figures for the playoffs and the Grand Final last year which seems to suggest that the interest is still there.

Its a very good observation, add to that a global pandemic which put the breaks in people mixing and breaks habits like final attendance. If you look at the drop off in demand across a range of services (eg cinema attendance) I imagine the patterns are similar.

After last night it’s obvious that St Helens will be stopped. It’s clear to see that the refs have been told to make sure Warrington win at all costs

Nothing to do with Salfords discipline that led to 2 8 point tries being awarded?

It definitely looked like discipline and fitness was the reason for the final score to me. Although Smith continued his tradition of making some questionable decisions, he definitely didn't lose Salford the game.

Remember when I said Leeds only ever bring a minibus to St Helens despite their fans saying they were the best supported team in super league? Only to be called a troll by said Leeds fans?…….lol

Just like last season. Refs have been told to sin bin St Helens players whenever possible. No wonder no one cares about rugby league in this country because it’s laughable

What the actual ????? Shoulder charge but Welsby gets penalised? Told you. The refs have been paid

After the referees display last night and tonight, it’s obvious the referees have been told to make sure St Helens don’t win SL.

Utterly embarassing for rugby league league in this country

Seems what was said to be the worst Leeds squad in a decade can......very well played by Leeds and a good performance from the officials