The NRC is a lot better than its critics have given it credit for.
There was always going to be conjecture around the implementation of such a competition – as there was for the ARC in 2007 – but the core reasoning for the NRC, developing future Wallabies, rises above these complaints.
To finish it all off, we have the final at Ballymore on Saturday night.
Two thrilling semi-finals filled with not only positive attacking play, but bone-crunching hits in defence and a genuine contest at set-piece have set the stage for a return to one of the most hallowed stages of them all.
Just how this weekend’s final has come to be played at Ballymore in itself is quite the story.
The previously undefeated Melbourne Rising suffered a shock loss to Perth Spirit (and the media spent the rest of the day making puns), in what was one of the more thrilling games of rugby seen this season.
The rugby played was breathtaking and diverse, and both sides should be proud. Fox Sports’ Sean Maloney couldn’t get enough of the action either, at one point exclaiming, “We want more footy!”
Brisbane City also had a close win against NSW country. Down 26-16 at half time, City came storming back to win 34-26 on the back of some brilliant work by Brando Va’aulu, as well as tough forward play.
And so it is with great excitement that the inaugural NRC final will be held at Ballymore, which is a beautiful stadium.
The best part is that it is a throwback to all that is good and great about the game of rugby.
Ticket prices
Yep, tickets are going on the cheap, with family deals, concession discounts, and $5 tickets for juniors. The Queensland Rugby Union are doing a deal for a family of five to attend for $50. Get around it.
New rules
Undoubtedly the new rules have maintained the core values and integrity of the game while removing redundant ones. This makes for a very entertaining contest, one which is far from the ‘touch basketball’ games many scribes from the northern hemisphere have said games would turn into.
The hill
It’s back. Seven News reported on Monday night that Brisbane City want to fill the famous hill. Fill it, and fill it to the brim rugby fans. Create the raucous atmosphere this game deserves.
Rugby fans, the onus is on you. Buy your ticket now, tell 15 of your mates to buy their tickets now, get rowdy, and #FillTheHill.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.
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