Every year, when I watch the NRL grand final, I’m always left wanting a bit more out of the experience. I think its great that they televise the NSW Cup and Toyota Cup finals, as this helps to promote two great competitions and showcases grass-roots as well as up and coming rugby league stars.
However I’m not so naive to think that interest in these games is limited.
Obviously there could also be much improvement in the pre-game entertainment, incorporating Australian and big-name acts.
But I thought it would be great to see a sort of ‘bronze medal match’ between the losers of the two semi finals.
There are several reasons for this. Firstly, it would increase demand for tickets as fans of the these two teams would love to see them go around the park one more time before the off-season.
It would provide a great opening match for the day getting long-time fans switching on for the third place match, then sticking around for the NSW Cup and TC finals.
It would also lengthen the event, providing more opportunity for TV ratings; with the move to night games, it gives people an opportunity to ‘make a day of it’, having the chance to put on a BBQ like the old days while still being able to watch some first grade footy.
It would provide these teams’ players with one last chance to plead their case for Test selection; and, most importantly, puts on more top grade rugby league for all to see.
Obviously there would be downsides as well. Some may feel like this cheapens the actual grand final, but I think if it was played much earlier in the day, then this would avoid this problem.
What do you think?
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