Over the last few years, the change to Super League’s format has helped to increase the intense drama and excitement of rugby league as a sport. Nowadays, there are probably five or six teams that are all capable of winning the Super League crown, a statistic that shows just how competitive English rugby has become.
While most rugby fans may prefer the traditional form of union, rugby league has matured into a worldwide phenomenon. Super League is now very much on par with the NRL as the best and most successful divisions in the rugby league world and fans from all four corners of the globe travel to England to watch the top teams in action.
Warrington Wolves are one of the best teams in England and head coach Tony Smith has had a huge impact on their playing style and success in recent times. The Australian has created a unique form of rugby league at the Halliwell Jones Stadium and the Wolves are benefiting from his sharpness and intelligence as a coach.
They are an incredible attacking outfit and have moulded their set-plays and style on that of the NRL. Australia’s primary rugby league division is widely regarded as the greatest league on the planet and England’s clubs can learn plenty from their free-flowing and hard-hitting style. Ultimately, Super League is improving but the NRL remains a class above.
However, more rugby league sides are following Warrington’s example by adopting an NRL-style approach. Hull FC, currently priced at 5/2 to win the Super League Grand Final in bet365’s rugby betting markets, have been simply sublime this year and have tweaked their offensive unit to follow the Australian style. This has worked to great effect.
Without a shadow of a doubt, Super League is maturing into a truly fantastic spectacle and one that can be enjoyed by all.
The football can be a daunting experience for younger sports fans but rugby league grounds tend to be family-friendly venues and many children enjoy the pace and high skill level of a rugby league encounter.
Realistically, rugby league is never going to overtake football as the primary sport in the United Kingdom but it could certainly grow into a top market. It truly is one of the most dramatic sports and Super League is relishing from the late drama, the highs and the lows and the incredible moments – whether they are for or against your chosen team.
So, if you’re not already involved in rugby league in some capacity, get involved. Pick a team to follow, head down to your local rugby league club or simply watch the excitement on television. If nothing else, one thing is for sure: Super League is now a major player on the world stage and with so much air-time on television screens, it will only continue to grow and become more popular, especially with those who are willing to give an exciting, growing sport a chance.