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I would take issue with use of the word "fans". I would agree that "casual supporters" are, but I think real fans go an watch the game and support a club/region. Maybe I'm being naive.
I'm not sure the NZ comparison works. Firstly, their "clubs" are actually franchises, not clubs in the sense we understand here. Secondly, they have the pick of the South Sea Island players, so many more to choose from. In terms of Club v Country - of course the player would do anything to play for his country (witness Bergamasco a couple of years ago who played scrum half because they were desperate, even though he had a nightmare of a game. Unfortunately, this is now a professional game and who pays the wages does matter. In most cases, it's Clubs/Regions who pay the wages - not the National teams.
One way of attracting more fans is by the "stars" being available to play for their Clubs/Regions more - and spending less time away on International duty. The rest of your comment I agree with completely. Both sides set out to play positive rugby. As a spectacle for the neutral supporter is it was excellent. As an advert for the game it was outstanding. Cooper, when he's on form (as he was on Saturday) is an amazing talent, and a joy to watch.
I don't disagree. Having grown up with it and played for nearly 30 years it's hard to understand how some people don't "get it" - but I take your point.
One thing I think would help my whinging, would be a restructuring of the playing season.
If the Clubs played their respective League matches, then moved up a gear to, for example, the Euro Cup comps, then came the Internationals, this would provide more of a logical progression.
That's it - whinge over |
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