Should be a top 3 for me, 1st straight to final , 2nd plays 3rd for the final opponents. We keep bangin on we play too many games before the internationals, that would save a couple of games.

Because that was a straight knock out competition which didn't give the sides finishing at the top end of the table any advantage what so ever other than a home game

At least the sides that make an effort throughout the season and actually win more games than they lose to make the play off series, get rewarded for their efforts by having a second chance should they happen to be defeated in the 1st round matches

Great concept that deserves credit imo,
But the bosses at sky would never ever go for such a reduced play-off formula

Eamonn, is that you?

Would the players be prepared to take reduced wages to cover the loss in income?