‘They’ve done a great job because they’ve got big attendances both at the games and on TV.’
By Ben Sutton
Peter V’landys has given the AFL a rare compliment and admitted the NRL are considering copying the rival code by introducing a wildcard round.
The AFL introduced the two extra finals this year, effectively replacing the old pre-finals bye weekend with two more matches.
Both games drew over 80,000 and were a ratings bonanza. It also made the regular season more interesting for more clubs with the wildcard prize keeping engagement levels high.
Another positive of the wildcard round is that top six teams would likely not rest players in the final round of the season given they would have the week off.
The teams placed seventh to 10th, meanwhile, would play off to secure one of two finals spots, so would have incentive to name their best teams.
The new finals format also had plenty of critics, with many arguing the extra matches are just a glorified cash grab and the teams are no chance of actually winning the premiership.
Carlton fans celebrate the wildcard win over Melbourne. Credit: AAP
That was evidenced by wildcard winners Carlton and the Western Bulldogs crashing out in the elimination finals.
It is understood NRL club chief executive officers were broadly in favour of introducing the concept when quizzed at last week’s meeting.
And V’landys is also a fan, and even hinted it could be brought in as soon as next year when Perth enter to make it an 18-team competition.
“It’s under consideration at the moment. We looked at this a few years ago, but we thought it might be promoting mediocrity, but it hasn’t,” he told ABC on Monday morning.
“I think the AFL have proven that you keep the fans engaged for a longer period of time by having 10 teams (make finals). And they’ve done a great job in doing that because they’ve got big attendances both at the games and on TV.
“What it does is it keeps those fans engaged for a longer period and that’s something we have to look at.
“We always look at it through the lens of a fan and we’ll consider that to make sure that all fans are getting their team an opportunity to be in the finals series.”
