So I had the pleasure of listening to Michael Slater and Terry Kennedy this morning on the radio. Two gentleman who decided they were educated enough to discuss the outcome of the recent NRL CEO's meeting.
Lets start with a background check on these two.
Michael Slater - A fantastic career for Australia in the Baggy Green and a wonderful cricket commentator. He has matriculated successfully into the media world and delivers insightful comments during his cricket commentary. I remember being at the SCG many years ago when 'slats' scored a defiant century against England whilst the Australian batting order collapsed around him. He hit one of the most beautiful cover drives I have ever seen from Darren Gough to bring up his hundred. I think he scored 120 odd in an Australian total of less than 200.
Terry Kennedy - I remember "TK's" Rugby League commentary on the old C7 sports channel when optus ran its Rugby League pay TV coverage. He was part of a commentary team that included Steve Roach and Mario Fenech. All I can say about Terry is that he was the third smartest bloke in that commentary team.
To digress - this morning's opening had Michael Slater shocked and amazed that the NRL decided to stick with its McIntyre System for the finals, including no changes made to the first round 'home semi-final' rule. Terry agreed.
My question to Terry and Michael... If there is no hard and fast rule governing the semi finals... how is it decided which games are moved and which are not? We could conceivably have a scenario where the Sharks are forced to move their hard fought 'home semi' away from the shire, thus forgoing any advantage gained from playing so well during the 26 round season. You can say the same for all Sydney suburban teams who might host a semi final. There would be uproar and it would make a complete mockery of any playoff system.
I congratulate the NRL for sticking with this rule. The advantage should stay with the team finishing higher on the ladder. If we want to make more money from ticket sales, clubs could be given a biggger cut from NRL profits in the future. They might then invest this money in renovations to ensure bigger crowds going forward. Just a thought.
No need for a quick fix here Michael and Terry. What Rugby League needs now is foresight, patience and money. So please think before you speak on what is best for The Greatest Game of All. There has been enough criticism of the micro... lets try and think bigger and plan for the next 20 years. With the AFL now trying to cut off the preverbial artery to League's heartland, we must not get caught up with petty arguments.
Also, love the B.S.B. show. Anyone talking about Rugby League is good for the game.
cheers
No comments:
Post a Comment