Who said anything about the "End of RL"? However, it wouldn't take a lot of departures to seriously damage the sport. Aside from the loss of talent League's already shaky position within the media would be jeopardized. Unfortunately perception is often reality and the perception that League is losing its best talent to Union would make sponsors think very seriously about investing in the sport. Unlike the RFU which is awash with money League cannot afford to be losing investors given the current economic malaise.

Which of the above players are likely to move? I've no idea. But you can bet that Union will be sniffing around ANY youngster who looks like he's got the ability to make a name for himself. Obviously the emphasis will be on backs as they are more likely to make the transition. I don't agree that many will likely fail in the sport. If you look at the big names who have joined the exodus the success rate is far higher than people think. Yes, Hape, Vainikolo, Henry Paul and Farrell didn't become Union superstars. But to say they failed is complete nonsense. All of them made the England team at some point and their demise was as much to do with the paucity of talent surrounding them as their own performances.

Union has learned quickly. They made the mistake of recruiting players past their prime and have now switched their attention to younger players. And they will point to the success of Chris Ashton as proof that their plan is working. In any case, Union can easily afford a few failures. Money is no issue.

From another thread.



I think is probably a truer reason for Tomkins depature though.

Just read on another post that Thornley's been fired off from Sale for being rubbish. Gone to Leeds RU second team apparently.

Who's Thornley?

wasn't he the big Wigan loss this year.

Big centre?

No idea!

ask old man Rogues

Say's it all really.

Thornley was on TV a couple of weeks back playing for Leeds Carnegie on loan from Sale. Played pretty well from the highlights I saw. Some great barnstorming runs. Looked a real big lad even when compared against the backrowers on show.

He's gone to learn the game (and Sale sale some money) He was an outstanding prospect 6ft 2" and over 15 stone at the age of seventeen, and very quick.

Sale made him an offer he couldn't refuse (or Wigan match). If you think of Tom Armstrongs predicament at Saints, furthering his education, then think about how Thornleys education has been funded, you will probably realise why he did make the change.

Would he have ever made it as a Superleague player, I don't know but it would have been nice to find out.

Pray tell, what does it say?

It says we don't care about Wigan or there woes but boring old Rogues just can't get that into his head.

That would be my translation of it too.