Simon Boyne
I'd rather go to a #URC fixture than a #EuropeanChampionsCup fixture at this stage #Rugby
Dec 17, 2022 at 9:16amWeb
Show threadOnetightshoeDec 17, 2022
@SimonB
Isn't the world strange where the much maligned magnets/pro/urc is more of a competition than the H cup.
Show threadSimon BoyneDec 17, 2022
@onerightshoe very strange indeed
Show threadTaffy BaldwinDec 18, 2022
@SimonB the current format is making things hard to judge as it is possible to sacrifice a game and still progress. So far it looks like more URC teams are competitive with top French and English sides.
Show threadSimon BoyneDec 18, 2022
@taffybaldwin the format is dreadful. It absolutely dreadful. As you say teams can throw games. It's confusing and lacks excitement all to get to a round of 16 which will throw up a load of mismatched fixtures. Too many teams not enough quality.
#rugby
Show threadTaffy BaldwinDec 18, 2022

@SimonB being heavily involved in rugby development in Uganda I am excited by the concept of rugby across the timezones covering Europe and Africa.

However i would love within that tiered competitions coming from more regional forms. So the top competion perhaps Irish Champions, Scottish, Welsh, English, French, South Africans, Italians. All defined by highest placed within URC or domestic leagues. For stronger nations top two or even top 4. 16 teams in 4 groups being ideal.

Show threadBrian (he/him)Dec 18, 2022

@SimonB @taffybaldwin

The old Heino format whilst superior, actually had many of your issues.
There were more teams not fewer.

Teams sent incredibly weakened teams as they concentrated on their domestic competition.
French teams often sent 3rd string teams away from home.

Now the group system, and only two runners up did make most games more meaningful.