mattsrhinos1978 wrote:
Its not a case of actively encouraging clubs, clubs arnt actively looking to call matches off...If theres even a slight chance that members of the Leeds squad/staff could have the virus, they shouldnt be travelling through 3 different countrys, encountering god knows how many people along the way. Regardless of the outcome, the RFL statement was unnecessarily front foot, its like theyv been under a rock for 3 month.
Maybe I’m just a bit cynical but I could easily see clubs using the situation for their own benefit. Those with high injury lists or in poor form could use it to avoid playing games now in the hope of getting players back or regaining form by the time the fixture is rearranged. I’m struggling to think of a rule that hasn’t been abused by clubs at one point or another, for instance both stopping a game due to injury and the HIA protocols have both been taken advantage by some clubs.
So any time a game is called off other than by the match commissioner there should be an investigation by the RFL.
However you’re spot on re the statement. It should have been much more congenial and nuanced. It should have read something like “The RFL are aware of the postponement of the Super League match between Catalans Dragons and Leeds Rhinos due to be played on Saturday 14th March.
We are aware of and sympathetic towards the reasons for this however must follow operational rules and convene an investigation.”