I didn't like the 4 vs 5 game - it was either essentially meaningless, or week off for winner, loser eliminated - depending on other results.
I like that each of the top 4 are still guaranteed a home game.
Much harder for 5 and 6 - instead of a home game in week 2 if they win and a chance of surviving a loss they are sudden death and on the road in week 2 if they win.
Theoretically harder for Minor Premiers to get week off (they need to beat a higher ranked team), but they have more insurance if they lose (stay at home in week 2).
About time. Great first decision by the independant commision...a safe decision too as it was a no brainer, ppl have been demanding the change for years.
Who does this IC think it is...coming in and changing the finals system...I mean...oh, wait a second...yes, it was actually something the fans, clubs and media were pleading for! Bravo!
Now if they could only bring in Perth, sort out the finances of all the clubs, score a big fat TV deal and sort out RL at all levels, all will be good.
Much fairer.....4th v 5th has always been a problem IMO. 2004 still hurts when Dragons finished 5th and lost to Penrith (Girdler field goal in a thriller 31 to 30 or something like that.).....didn't know it at the time but all of a sudden come Monday morning, your out. I would much rather these bottom 4 of the 8 be sudden death.