Ulster head coach, Matt Williams, has thrown his backing behind the introduction at the start of next season of play-offs at the end of the Magners League to determine the champions.
Currently, the winner of the 10-team league involving clubs from the Celtic nations, Ireland, Scotland and Wales, lifts the Celtic Trophy.
But as from the 2009-10 season, the top four finishers will be involved in play-offs just as they have in th
e other major leagues for premier clubs in England, France and the Super 14 in Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.
Coming from an Australian background, Williams told the News Letter: “To be honest I am surprised it is not already the norm.
“It means for an exciting climax to the season and keeps the interest in it for teams who are just outside the upper end of the table.
“Yes there are those who say it is consistent form over a season that makes a league winner, but given it is already used everywhere else it is great to have it in the Magners League as well.”
Director of Celtic Rugby David Jordan, announced the new proposals at yesterday’s Magners League launch at the RDS in Dublin, hosted by league champions, Leinster.
Jordan said: “Celtic Rugby is always striving to align itself with other professional rugby tournaments around the world, consequently this season will be the last that the Magners League is played in its present format.
“I am pleased to announce that from 2009/10 we will be introducing an end of season play-off to determine the Magners League Champions with the top four teams qualifying for the knockout stage.
“Also going forward we intend to address the irregular nature of the competition by creating a rhythmic season, achievable as Magners League weekends will not compete with any other tournament.”
He added: “A Grand Final will provide a great day out for fans and commercial partners alike, the emphasis will not just be about the participating finalists but a great celebration of Celtic Rugby on and off the pitch.
“The Magners League is one of the leading competitions in world rugby.”
Qualification places for the Heineken Cup the following season will still be determined by finishing place at the completion of the league campaign.
The full article contains 387 words and appears in News Letter newspaper.
