Re: Four Nations 2014 : Wed Oct 30, 2013 11:13 pm  

the artist wrote:

i think to make it a success we have to set up the games to avoid blow out scores if we possibly can. all the memorable games in this WC so far have featured close games, or stirring comebacks

True but at the same time we need to make more competitive and attractive games to keep the top players from changing countries. Too many players are only playing for some countries when it comes to the world cup and the only way we will see the big three stranglehold broken is if teams can build a national side for years to come. Once the stranglehold is broken the rest will follow IMO.

Re: Four Nations 2014 : Thu Oct 31, 2013 2:11 pm  

If its down under, and the 4th nation is PNG for example, then there could be a Pacific Cup tournament played alongside it as double headers featuring Fiji, Tonga, Samoa and Cook Is.
Simple as that for next year.

Re: Four Nations 2014 : Thu Oct 31, 2013 7:10 pm  

the artist wrote:

i think to make it a success we have to set up the games to avoid blow out scores if we possibly can. all the memorable games in this WC so far have featured close games, or stirring comebacks

Alternatively you could say that smaller teams need big game experience against quality opposition if they're to improve - that's the train of thought in most sports, at least.

Fans will love watching close, intense games between 'second tier' nations and it will help the games international profile, but do you think it could hinder at the same time?

I think there are a few teams outside of the 'big three' who would be better served by regularly playing against England, New Zealand and Australia, regardless of how one-sided some games may be.

I do like the double header idea mentioned earlier though!