Northampton Rebels fold before a game

The RFL are in a no-win situation trying to expand the code into the Union heartlands. For whatever reason Union strongholds such as the Midlands, East Anglia, the South East & Southern England (and some would argue Wales), just don't have the appetite for League when they already have successful Union clubs (and local soccer clubs) to support .

I really can't put my finger on why there is this perceived snobbery with Union over League in some areas of the country; but the RFL have tried to crack London for 20 years but still the crowds (catchment area of around 8m) won't come.

Build from the bottom up is the only way for me and that takes time and money. Hemel are a club that will be around in 20 years as they have been building for some time.

SEEEEEEEEEEEEEEX