Fylde RFC head coach Warren Spragg pledges loyalty to players in a new-look game

Warren Spragg says new rules would not result in him selecting a different side

Plans are being drawn up to replace this season’s abandoned leagues at Fylde’s level with a one-off competition involving regional round-robins and then a national knockout.

Fylde accept that any return to action this season will be under ‘hybrid’ rules, reducing close contact at set-plays, particularly scrums.

Spragg told The Gazette: “If you are a Fylde supporter, you would still see Fylde play a very similar game but every coach is aware that we may have to adapt.

“The game would still be full contact in open play, but the teams would not be in such close proximity as they prepare to scrum down and the scrum itself would last only 10 seconds.

“It seems to be working well in the women’s game and producing fast games.”

As the new rules would diminish the role of traditional set-piece specialists in the pack, it has been suggested that coaches may be tempted to fill their team with faster and more athletic players.

However, Spragg insists this would not be the case. |He added: “The front rows might look to shed some weight but a lot of props like to be the shape they are and they will still play. We have a responsibility to these players.

“Coaches could tweak their selection just to try to win the game but I wouldn’t do that to players.

“The lads who have been turning up for training and really care about the club will play.

“They might not be the most talented players we’ve got,but those who have stood by each other and looked after each other will get the chance to play.

“Some of our hardest-working players are our second rows and props, and those lads would play.”

Spragg supports the proposed competition but remains hopeful it will be a one-off.

Indeed, he is optimistic the sport can recover from the pandemic without permanent scars.

Spragg added: “I think the game will get back to normal, hopefully for the start of next season in September.

“Other diseases through history have been brought under control and this one will be too. Once the vaccine has done its job, I think we’ll be back to normal.”

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