Of course if one of Leeds or Saints loses in the first week, then the fun starts in the other team having the choice to play the other either at home in the semi-final or potentially in the GF.

I don't think Leeds and saints will both win in week one.

Would certainly throw a spanner in the works if Saints and Leeds lost their first round games, every possibility we could have a grand final with two new teams just like Wembley this weekend.

Someone should start a thread.

Things whinging Saints players don't like.

I'll give you three to start with.....

Going to Edinburgh for the MM

Cameras in dressing rooms at GF

Opposition players whooping.

...but the choosing opponents part of the new system IS ridiculous.

Personally, if you're looking for a top 8 format, the NRL works reasonably well. 1st plays 8th, 2nd plays 7th etc in week one, with the two lowest placed losers out. That means the top two cannot be knocked out in the first week but its definitely elimination time for 7 and 8 if they lose, with teams 5 and 6 also jittery in case of upsets. In addition, following that the higher placed teams get the home games automatically.

Anyway, maybe it works because the top 8 are a bit closer in the NRL, but it seems to ensure fiercely contested games throughout the playoffs.

Rain

A play-off system deciding the champions post 2002