NRL ditches Monday game for final round
August 7, 2007 - 7:11PM
The NRL has decided to shelve Monday night football for the final round of the competition to offer all clubs an even playing field ahead of the finals.
The final match of the 2007 regular season will now be held at 7pm on Sunday evening with Melbourne to host newcomers the Gold Coast in a game that could decide both the final eight and the minor premiership.
Fox Sports have enjoyed record success with Monday night football this year and while it will continue in the future, the broadcaster accommodated a change in schedule to not adversely impact on the finals.
With several teams still in contention for the finals, picking a Monday night fixture was impossible without negatively affecting one club's NRL finals chances.
"This is a positive outcome all round," said NRL chief executive David Gallop.
"Fox Sports have seen the difficulties in filling the Monday night program and they have agreed to allow the Melbourne v Titans game to move to Sunday evening.
"We've received a lot of support from all our broadcast partners.
"We certainly appreciate the flexibility that has been shown by all parties."
Fox Sports said it had been keen to ensure the best possible finish to the minor premiership race.
"This decision was made in the best interests of everyone involved in the game including the fans and the eight teams that will qualify for the finals series," said Fox Sports chief executive David Malone.
"This move acknowledges the importance of giving all eight teams that qualify for the finals equality in their preparation."
