: Tue Jun 23, 2009 1:26 pm
The only facts we have are from the official statements and there is no need to go over other people's opinions on the matter. However I think there is a bit too much doom and gloom going on about this issue.
If the second sample is positive and a two year ban results then yes we will lose one of our better performers. However rather than crying over spilt milk we could look at the positive opportunities for the club rather than the prospect of losing a semi final this year.
If the b sample is positive and he is banned and sacked by the club...
We have an opportunity for one of several promising second rowers from our reserves to play for the team and stay at Wigan when they may otherwise have left to gain first team rugby.
We have more freedom to operate under the cap and with it the potential to improve the squad in an area where it is more urgently needed. This can help with the advancement by a season of our push to be more consistent and competitive.
We would have removed a deleterious example of acceptable behaviour from the club and so diminished the exposure of younger players to this practice.
The club would have a perfect opportunity to distance itself from the use of drugs by using players and others at the club to spearhead an anti drugs campaign. Such an approach would show the club in a positive light and this incident although not one that you would want to occur could be used as a starting point for this type of campaign in order to gain some positive publicity for the club.
A strong stance by the club in such a matter should attract players and coaches who are against drug use etc as well as putting off those who may be more lenient on such matters. This would help in the changing to a more positive club culture.
I may be being overly optimistic but then someone has to be.
