Think small time, get small time. Its not really a lot of money.

The 97 competition which was poorly planned and poorly executed and contained 83 games only lost about £2m. Since then the value of sports rights have risen hugely, the cost of travel has fallen massively, both leagues have adapted to full professionalism.

And again, i dont think fear of losing is a good reason not to play. It is a terrible reason not to play.

www.skysports.com/rugby-league/n ... kable-club Food for thought.

www.skysports.com/rugby-league/n ... kable-club Food for thought.

Wow. Interesting thing for me is how much of that work is on the mental strength.

Seems to be on another level.

Like a day at school in Donny.

Just to go back to the game a little.

I don't actually think on the telly you got a true reflection of just how good a side Melbourne are. They speed at which the try to play the game is absolutely frightening. And comparing them to SGI and Souths at ANZ the night after they were a couple of yards quicker than them. Yeah, it's only pre-season for them as well but Melbourne were more than ready for the game and were well drilled.

It was a great event to be at, well worth the trip over. I wasn't in the Leeds specific bay as I bought $60 tickets on half way but the noise coming from down there was absolutely fantastic for all those who travelled over. The fact the fans were able to mingle with the players at the Duke of Wellington afterwards was great as well. I wasn't actually there when they arrived as I had to get back to the hotel because of an early flight back to Sydney the morning after.

The full 10 day trip has been absolutely fantastic. If you've read this month's 40-20 I was lucky enough to be down in Wollongong as well for the Wigan v Hull game as well so I won't elaborate on that part of it. Sydney is a wonderful city with lots to do, after a day up in the Blue Mountains called at Penrith on the way back to see the Leagues Club. What a place, never seen anything like it. So many poker machines, restaurants and a real community hub for the people of the town. I can't wait to go back!