I read somewhere this week (I can't find a link so it must have been a paper-based article, anyone else seen it?) that Hudge was hoping to field both Mason and Dobson at the derby, and had actually asked for dispensation to do so. He received a hearty "no" in response to that request.

Still think it depends on how the RFL view the whole fiasco, if they apportion any blame to Rovers and how embarrassed they feel. The mighty silence from them from start to finish would indicate they feel a tad compromised, at least. They may also take into consideration how audacious they feel Rovers have been with the continued dispensation requests and if they feel they have been granted more than their fair share of favours.

I also think it will depend on how much of a protest other clubs make and how public these are likely to be. I certainly [idon't[/i think they intend to "punish" Rovers, more that they will feel it necessary to be seen to be addressing any imbalances.

infrequently because no other team is seeking to shoehorn 10 overseas players into their squad. Although Widnes might give it a go in 2016 if they claim that 5 years is not long enough to deliver homegrown players.

My guess is that Rovers hoped the Tongan PM's letter would, given the circumstances over there, suffice - hence the (misplaced) positivity in the lead up to THE ANNOUNCEMENT. They said no - leaving us with an unpalatable choice, eventually going for Dobson for a number of reasons, likely including the Toulon rumours.



They'll look forward I'm sure - looking at what would be embarrassing, rather than what has been (can't change that now). It's not like it was done with malice of forethought. Whatever they choose, the club can't complain - but you'd hope and assume they'd indicate their intentions so it doesn't bleed on pointlessly.

I think that's probably spot-on.



My thoughts too.

We agree! It's only taken a day . Right - must go and stir that risotto, the Chablis is chilling.

Hindsight being a wonderful thing,do you not think it would have been better if Mason had "done a Crocker" and actually not made it over here?

quote possibly but put into perspective 6 years ago willie mason and rovers wouldn't have been in the same breath, a big signing was dwayne barker. its gone sour but the fact he got here shows how far we've come

I wouldn`t argue with that bud. (choke)

Not yet.

If he stays and plays...