So far the excitement generated from the Rugby League World Cup could be best described as mixed.
Right now, we are in the mix of the final round robin stage of the tournament with some teams ready for the quarter-finals, while others have their bags packed to head for the airport after their next game.
However, it hasn’t been the games themselves that I have mixed feelings about, it has been the buzz that the tournament has generated.
Let me explain. The games in Papua New Guinea have been sensational. The atmosphere and the passion of the fans have made these games must-watch events. I consider the Papua New Guinea versus Ireland game to be the match of the tournament so far.
Also, the games in New Zealand have also showcased what is so great about our sport. Tribalism and passion were at its best when the Tongans and Samoans faced each other with their traditional war cries.
I still get the chills going down my spine, and the hair on my body stand with anticipation each time I watch the replay.
I have also very much enjoyed listening to the Fijian hymn before their games. I just wish that bigger crowds were there to witness their passion. The lack of crowds in the Australian venues has been what I feel have been the letdown for this tournament.
Only just over ten thousand people attended the Lebanon versus England game in Sydney. Yet, there are at least a couple of hundred thousand people of Lebanese ethnicity living in Sydney and who love their rugby league.
(NRLPhotos / Gregg Porteous)
What have the organisers done to promote the games? Why the small crowds? Is it publicity? Is it cost? Is it a lack of interest? Is it a combination of these issues?
I question if it is interest, due to the fact that the television audiences have been rock solid. The high television ratings have been the case across many of the games, so apparently, people are interested in watching the tournament.
In a previous post (the Cold War of Australian Sport) I highlighted many reasons why Sydney fans stay away from rugby league sporting events, but for this tournament especially the games in Sydney, I thought the crowds could reach close the 30k mark for both contests.
Moreover, even the opening game in Melbourne was not a sell-out. Further to this, the crowds in Townsville have not been flash. Although, I thought the crowds for the games in Cairns were good, overall the vibe and atmosphere at the Australian venues have been disappointing.
If anyone knows the reason why the crowds and atmosphere have been weak in Australia, I would surely like to know.
Despite the sparse Australian crowds, I am still as happy as a surfer on a deserted beach with an epic set rolling in with the quality of rugby league on display. I do not doubt that the quarter-finals will throw up some exciting matches.
I have a sneaky feeling that Papua New Guinea may put in a serious effort against England. Fiji and Tonga both look threatening, while Samoa, although beaten twice could still produce something substantial. New Zealand should always be aiming for the title, and Australia is no doubt seeking glory.
In spite of my doubts and reservations, I think rugby league will come out the winner after the tournaments conclusion. I am confident the vibe around the tournament will improve and believe that the next few weeks will provide rugby league and sports fans with the great and memorable moments we desire.
Chook
Guest
They weren't always. I think the game believed it should evolve due to the Farrugia incident
Sleiman Azizi
Roar Guru
(rolls eyes)
Sleiman Azizi
Roar Guru
You're right. Sutton also scored Tonga's tries and tackled for them too.
Maestro
Guest
My highlight of RLWC - "Scotland" RL players singing "Flower of Scotland" acapella with northern English accents. Would you watch the Ice Hockey World Cup if there was an Australian team full of Canadian and US players each with an Australian grandparent and one genuine Aussie player?
Rob9
Roar Guru
I'm a rugby league fan so I read rugby league articles. I'm not passionate about the RLWC by any stretch and see a lot of issues facing it so I tune in with an interest as to how people think these issues should be addressed. What's actually remarkable is very little relevant discussion is actually had and instead it turns into people slinging mud at rugby on a rugby league thread.
Maestro
Guest
And the other govts gave them millions? The game is not to the highest bidder - its allegedly for the fans..
Maestro
Guest
Sutto did the work yesterday of bringing Tonga back into the game. Sham
Sleiman Azizi
Roar Guru
I don't like blowouts either Chook but there is an end game here for international league. But if you found my comment to be arrogant, apologies.. That wasn't the spirit in how they were written. I'd rather they be seen as being 'intensely surprised' instead. May the Force be with you.
Chook
Guest
well mate don't be so arrogant as to tell people whether they love something or not just because they don't agree with you
Sleiman Azizi
Roar Guru
It's a Jedi thing Chook. I'd teach you but there's enough Dark Side in the world as it is.
Chook
Guest
Rugby League is a spectator sport. Whatever else it is is not enhanced by this competition in my view. I have noticed that whoever broaches these topics gets jumped on by "Gurus". Well if you have enjoyed the completion then I envy you your patience and self control.
Sleiman Azizi
Roar Guru
What did you question that made me a yes-man? The blowouts? Well, they happen in the RFL and NRL too. I did point out some of the positive aspects of a World Cup you know. It is so easy to hold league to some impossible standard and then complain or be disappointed when it doesn't deliver. The group stages of a rugby league World Cup is always going to feature blowouts given the disparity in quality between the nations competing. So I honestly don't understand the continual 'negativity' or sense of disappointment that permeates some comments. If looking at the cup as being half full makes me a yes man then so be it. I'll cop that fair and square.
Sleiman Azizi
Roar Guru
What did you question that made me a yes-man? The blowouts? They happen in the RFL and NRL too you know.
Sleiman Azizi
Roar Guru
Kebabface? Always interesting to watch the world move past people.
Chook
Guest
Oh..thank you Sleiman for pointing out that the last 58 years have been a waste of my leisure time. I love it how this forum is strictly a platform for the games yes men and if anyone questions something they aren't a fan. I have felt this of internationals since the 1980s.
tonyBBB
Guest
Cultural exchanges between what? Paramatta, Auburn and Cairns? I mean, it's not like many of the Italians and Americans fly back to their respective countries overseas after this tournament. The fact Darwin hosts the games shows how much the rest of the country cares about this mess. Playing styles? League is so one dimensional. Who cares. Stop being so delusional kebabface
Sleiman Azizi
Roar Guru
They're not 'scrums' so I don't know why people are so caught up on them.
Sleiman Azizi
Roar Guru
It was a serious question. I don't understand how anyone who is a fan of rugby league could ask that question in all seriousness. A positive aspect? Try commercial opportunities, administrative lessons, cultural exchanges, player and talent identification, playing styles assessment, broadening horizons, community engagement etc etc Sure, there are blowouts but what international tournament featuring a range of levels does not?
Chook
Guest
Since you feel the need to ask, don't bother answering
Sleiman Azizi
Roar Guru
Is that a serious question?