The Jeff means more to the English than the Rabid means to the Celts

First topic message reminder :

Being based on a league system (and I can't speak for the French), Jeff supporters have always to live with both aspiration and desperation.

No trap-door for Rabid supporters in the event of ultimate failure is very humane and gives them perpetual hope - and provides a perpetual National development process plus pretty much a guarantee of elite European qualification.

So English (and French?) club players have to break their backs week in week out whilst Celtic players sit in their Noel Coward smoking jackets sitting stuff out.

But the desire of all fans of all nations to succeed is equal. But I suggest that ultimately, at the pointy end of international competitions, Jeff/T14 will go further than the Rabid.

(this post may be a bit provocative)

But does that sell tickets, attract people to the game, does it make you want to win more? I don't see that it does.

If anything, it narrows the focus. Our system encourages coaches to take risks, both in throwing in young players and in style of play. I feel that gives us an advantage when it comes to test rugby. The Rugby of Fear will only take you so far. It allows coaches of struggling teams to plan long term as opposed to short term.

By the way, which do you believe?

The Jeff means more to the English than the Rabid means to the Celts

or

the desire of all fans of all nations to succeed is equal

This seems contradictory.

Portnoy, wrong guy, I'm afraid - I feel much more passionately about the inequality placed on newly promoted teams like the Chiefs than I care about relegation. We're just enjoying the ride - first European experiences, Anglo-Welsh matches, not to mention the pleasure of hosting the big teams at Sandy Park

Besides, I think you are overstating your case. Are there significant penalties for getting the wooden spoon in the Six Nations? No. Would you be happy enough with that? Of course you wouldn't.

Same with the 'Pro12' and the bottom placings.

AsLongAsBut100ofUs wrote:not to mention the pleasure of hosting the big teams at Sandy Park

Enough about the Dragons already.