Burgess says let points go

SOUTH Sydney legend Sam Burgess has called on NRL clubs to drop their egos and give up points earned in the first two rounds as the game pushes towards a new competition for 2020.

Headed by Wayne Pearce, the NRL’s innovations committee was set to consider scrapping the first two rounds and adopting a new conference format when they meet today.

Facing a backlash from angry NRL clubs and fans on Tuesday, ARL Commission chairman Peter V’landys stepped in to abort a plan to start the 2020 competition from scratch when it resumes.

It forced Pearce to backtrack 24 hours after pitching the idea. However, Burgess has implored the NRL to reconsider, saying if a new competition was to start based on conferences, it would not make sense to keep points earned while playing for a different title.

“The egos have got to go,” Burgess said on Fox Sports. “If it’s the best thing for the game to go to conference and brush the points, then get on with it.

“If the best thing is to keep on with the season and stay as we are, then go for it. But it’s got to be what’s best for the game, everyone’s ego, mindset or agenda has got to go here. One game one decision, and just get on with it.”

All but six clubs — Cronulla, St George Illawarra, Roosters, Gold Coast, Canterbury and Warriors — earned points in the first two games of the season. Manly won one game, and captain Daly CherryEvans insists the points need to count given what they represent to some players.

“For the record books, they’re matches that have been played so we’ve got to respect that,” he said.