Leeds & Relegation

Quote: Cherry_&_White "Leeds would be back in no time, and it wouldn't do too much damage to them in terms of fanbase/what they'll bring to the game. It might even invigorate them with a clean break with what has been all in all a dreadful few years of drift for them.

Undoubtedly bad for the game's appeal to a mass audience, but I wouldn't entertain any ideas of changing the structure to keep them in. Same with a lot the discussions with licencing a few years back, we have to ask some of the fundamental questions about what sport is there for. Fair competition, rewarding success without prejudice. I said the same when we almost got relegated, it would've been a disgrace if it was manufactured that we stayed up just because of our name.

It would be hilarious for a few weeks, bad overall, but ultimately I don't think it will happen anyway. We had quite a bit more than them at headingly the other week, but they had some big physical units which caused us some real problems, even if the quality wasn't there. The likes of Merrin, Hurrell, Singleton, even Cuthbertson will see them over the line in my view, still worry for London over the course of a full season.'"

This, in spades.

But just going back to comments about SL not being the be all and end all od rugby league: I quite agree, but nevertheless aren't league fans a bit too backward looking? You (by and large) don't hear football fans banging on about George Best and Denis Law, let alone Dixie Dean and Tommy Lawton.

I would say this to people wishing for winter rugby and corner flags in play:

a) it's just not going to happen (and I'm sure you realise that). But more importantly,

b) Ask 100 kids in the teens and twenties, the future supporters of the sport. Do you really imagine they would support your view? Not a chance! In fact, if they are at all keen on the game, they may well watch the NRL anyway, and can see from that what a great game we have when played by skilful players under good conditions..