this is what happens when every part off the game is built to suit TV, not to encourage people to get to the game. the only people who benefit from a Thursday night game are channel 9, problem is that small crowds take away atmosphere which lessens the viewing experience and will over time effect the tv audience.
For all those comparing the NRL tv deal to the AFL, a bit of perspective, we are going to watch Fremantle v Melbourne on sunday (not by choice), top verses bottom nothing game and its sold out 40k+ because their focus has always been getting people to the ground.