Death of 'boring' footy

Trends come and go in rugby league but I really liked what I saw regarding attacking footy over the weekend.

Let's hope it sounds the death knell to boring football.

For
the past few weeks, we have read and heard how boring rugby league has
become and how the wrestle has bogged down our great game.

After last weekend, I think some coaches have moved in another direction - and it was great to watch.

Attacking footy is back in rugby league.

Maybe now the conservative approach and just getting through your sets and kicking won't cut it.

How good was Canterbury against Parramatta on Friday night? They had plenty of blokes in motion and really tore up the Eels.

It seems the style Des Hasler wants to implement at Belmore has finally sunk in.

Melbourne rattled up 44 points against Penrith with some fabulous long-range tries, three going to winger Justin O'Neill.

They were a pleasure to watch.

I
really enjoyed North Queensland's open style against St George
Illawarra and the Sydney Roosters were impressive in the second half
against Newcastle at Allianz Stadium.

The Roosters changed their attack well and had plenty of offloads. It was exciting stuff.

Maybe
conservative rugby league is dead and some coaches need to spark up
their teams. Put some zing into their play and throw the ball around.

If the game wants to secure its $1 billion television deal then we need clubs to be entertaining.

That's what rugby league is - entertainment.

The Bulldogs, Cowboys and Storm really took some chances - and it paid off.

Hasler's
game plan to throw those short balls around the ruck area was inspired.
Parramatta really had no idea how to defend against it.

If Canterbury continue to play like that, there is no reason why they cannot secure a top-four finish.

Full credit to Neil Henry up there in Townsville. His team really put on a great show against the Saints.

The more teams play open footy and win matches, the more likelihood other sides will follow.

I hate watching dour, structured football games. Rugby league is too good for that.

Maybe it is time for all coaches to review their playing style.