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New points system

A special system for awarding competition points operates in the Northern Rail Cup and The Co-operative National League competitions.

It has many benefits including the following:

KEEPS GAMES ALIVE LONGER
By offering a tangible reward for strong, consistent performance over 80 minutes, the system encourages teams to keep competing in games that they may not be able to win.

To move the scoreboard in their favour, teams will play an attacking brand of Rugby League which will increase the spectacle and entertainment at many matches throughout the season.

ADDS AN EXTRA DIMENSION
Spectators have more to consider as they watch the action unfold. The system creates opportunities for clubs to take their destiny into their own hands and make a positive 'impact' on their League position. This adds extra excitment to the competition tables in both the Northern Rail Cup and The Co-operative National Leagues and will create greater levels of intrigue and excitement as the season progresses.

STRENGTHENS THE COMPETITION
The system encourages teams to be consistent and produce an optimum performance in all their matches throughout the season. This stimulates individual players and teams to 'raise their game' which in turn has a positive impact on the intensity and the on-field standards of the sport at this level.

STRIKES THE RIGHT BALANCE
The RFL commissioned a study prior to introducing this new system. The study examined what would happen if the new system had applied in previous National League seasons. The results showed the system did not disproportionately distort competition tables or give teams that lost matches too great a reward. Also, the system does not exacerbate the gap between strong and weak teams. In short, the new system strikes the right balance between creating additional excitement and interest and maintaining the integrity of the League and Cup tournaments.

National League's new competition points system

Win - Three points.
Draw - Two points.
Loss by 12 points or fewer - One point.