You can feel the pressure building on everyone

Actually, yes.
There was a rule change, forcing the clubs to have more "home grown" players in their squads and without the threat of relegation, there were more young British (and French) players getting more game time.
Of course there were still too many overseas players sloshing around in the system as well but, without doubt there were more youngsters getting some game time.

By the way, I'm not blaming the coaches for taking experience over youth, just pointing out that with survival being so important, EVERY side will try and strengthen and who do you think they are going to sign ??

To be fair quite a lot of youngsters have been getting game the last couple of years. Including at the lower table sides. Look at widnes. Wetherby the quality is up to scratch is a different argument.
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On topic, if Leigh get in. With Toronto and Toulouse (especially at home). You'd think there is potential for a few upsets.
For a neutral it could be a fantastic middle 8's comp.

The 'quota' rules were introduced in 2008, the year before 'franchising' started. Those rules were tightened over the following 3 seasons so 'franchising' itself was hardly the reason.

Makes no difference. The point being made is the youth was forgotten. They can change the names to an academy and make it sound better. We had a game that players went from the community game to reserves/A teams, a very clear pathway.

Do you think they will ever create that clear pathway again?

Apparently he has been banned from posting on the VT.

Which is a shame, I find his posts quite entertaining.