Off the Wall

Last night the curtain was drawn on one of the real successes of the 2007 NRL premiership - Monday night football. And the result was very much as it has been since round one - a win by the underdog.

When Monday night fixtures were re-introduced the move was widely criticised. It would not rate, it would not draw crowds, and the players would hate it.

Well, it has rated very well on Fox Sports, the crowds have been exceptional, and there is a growing acceptance, with some reluctance, by coaches and players of its place in the game.

There is concern about the impact of the short turn around when a team plays on Monday night and the following Friday night, but the NRL can look at minimising that when the 2008 draw is finalised.

And it gives the game extra publicity the value of which is immeasurable.

Last night