"Fans are a must."
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
With all Group 10 rugby league clubs coming to the decision on Monday night to potentially further prolong the season until crowds will be allowed to spectate, one of the Mudgee Dragons' biggest fans has decided to share those same sentiments.
Russell Moriarty said due to the vitality of spectators, it would be difficult for any club to host a game with no source of income that is of hefty importance for teams.
"Fans are vital, especially with all teams' major sponsors being clubs and pubs. It adds noise to the game and vital money to the club via the bar and canteen, especially at a time like this," he said.
Crowds are a vital part of rugby league and unfortunately in local footy, the clubs will do it tough to make money with no crowd.
- Russell Moriarty
According to Group 10 president Linore Zamparini, there's no room to move on the proposed July 18 start date and if it were to be pushed back even a week further, it is unlikely there would be any Group 10 until 2021.
But, Moriarty is hopeful that fans will be allowed to return in no time as long as people continue to maintain COVID-19 guidelines and restrictions.
"With the way the curve has flattened, it's quite likely that crowds could be allowed," he said.
At this stage, if the competition returns it is likely to be an eight or nine-week season followed by two weeks worth of semis and then a grand final, as well as a top four instead of a top five finish.
Jay-Anna Sleeman
Reporter for the Western Advocate. First began as a sports journalist with ACM in 2018 before moving on to cover news and court.
Reporter for the Western Advocate. First began as a sports journalist with ACM in 2018 before moving on to cover news and court.
