Pirates continue fight for a team
WA rugby league fans could receive a consolation prize after doubts were cast over NRL expansion this week, with more home-and-away fixtures and a Test match on the cards for Perth over the next few years.
WARL chief executive John Sackson said the local body remained hopeful its West Coast Pirates bid would be part of NRL expansion plans sooner rather than later, despite grim news from the east following the announcement of the league's new broadcast deal.
Nine Network head David Gyngell this week questioned the value of having the extra game created by expansion for either the broadcasters or the competition.
But Sackson revealed a potential short-term boost for the code in WA, with the Australian Rugby League Commission considering bringing up to three NRL home-and-away games to Perth next year.
South Sydney have a year to run on their deal to bring games to WA and the Kangaroos could also make an appearance, with Perth being considered for Test matches.
"They've identified WA as a key priority market for development," Sackson said. "We've been told that and that's been clearly conveyed to us by the commission.
"I think the fact that they're now looking at three games here next year is a reflection of that."
Sackson said the WARL would work on its NRL bid until told expansion was completely off the table.
"We really believe in what we we're doing and we've got a strategic vision for the game long-term," Sackson said.
"Part and parcel of that is the strengthening of the game at the grassroots level and part of that strategic vision is one day having an NRL franchise.
"Whether that be achieved in five years or whenever, we know it's inevitable that a team will come back to this town. We genuinely believe that and it just makes sense.
"If someone came out and said we have to wait five years, sure, we'd be somewhat disappointed that it wasn't a little sooner. But it wouldn't dilute our resolve.
"Any delays in getting that opportunity would be put to good use in strengthening the grass roots, government support, corporate support and community engagement."
http://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/sport/ ... or-a-team/
