Could the SLA be changing into a much more competitive league?
Usually a one or 2 horse race!
Seems to be more unpredictable than the SLB!
Reasons ???

Rugby is a funny game and teams and even leagues go through phases, i just think the SLA is settling into professionalism throughout the league and the teams that still are more amateur than professional will start to suffer.  And professionalism doesnt just mean infrastructure and finance.  its the day to day running and management.  And that reflects in the results, teams with in-fighting, financial problems etc tend to be on the losing end.  In a few years i think the level of professionalism across the board will be at an outstanding level and then you will see slightly more predictable seasons like in the years 2005-2008.

Just my view!

SLB, u dont expect anything from anyone, some have had bad performances gone unpunished, and some have had good performances unrewarded.  There will be some shock results im sure of that!

Arnie yes SLA is becoming a more competitive league and its good for rugby!

In my opinion - the rest of the teams have caught up with the previous trend setters and yes more teams have financial backing then before although it is still very visible as to which teams are in a better financial state then others.

I agree 100% on the running of the club. Finances are important but you need driven, passionate individuals who put the club first and give of their time free. I also feel the Standard of club rugby is slowly on the rise after some bad years. They key going forward is to find ways of getting the local schools to connect to a club so that youngsters dont see their final year at school as the final year  of playing.