We or I didnt make the rules up regarding overseas players that was done long before I came to Gateshead. We are only playing to the rules set out

The EC/UK passport rules then they are the same for you and in essence you could play the same players at your club without breaking the rules however, I do believe in creating our own grown talent and that is what we are trying to achieve in Gateshead and that does take time. Till then it is only right that we do the best for the club within the rules even if those rules have been set by others I believe to balance the lack of home grown talent in the respective expansion area's.

Mr. Findlay came to the club as CEO because I could not run a full time Rugby Club in the North East while operating a business in Yorkshire and the Uk. I doubt that he has any influence within his old firm as now he has turned to the "Dark Side"!!!

Hearland v expansion will always be an emotive issue however both have their place in this game so long as we all can debate in a healthy manner then that has to be good for all of us.

The very best for you all next season and hope to see you at LSV and indeed at the GIS.

Kind Regards



Steven G

But there's funding from the RFL for development in the Wigan and Leigh service area, too. Some of this is based at LSV (eg the new League for All officer, Phil Roberts, who's a top fella and one of the leading lights behind the England Wheelchair Rugby World Champs). That'll count towards our development (or at least, to the same degree that the NE RFL team's work is).

All in all, the heartlands get far more money and support from the RFL than development areas, simply because there's so much more there to support.

You honestly believe that

Not saying that money is not spent in the heartlands , just the way it is then presented and accredited

I think its unfair that Batley are allowed to play on an un-level playing field

Thanks, you have answered my question! Surely it's better for a team to have no advantage regarding the Pitch ( no speech marks)! playing with the elements has always been a feature of any field sport however, running uphill or, downhill should not be allowed hence, Level Playing Field!

Has anyone on here ever played on the pitch at Batley. Is the slope really that bad ? I would be interested to know. The results seem to show its a problem.......2004 anyone.