Loan/DR players

The use of loan/DR players 

Over the last couple of weeks, with the Prem cup being on we have seen the strength of some sides change dramatically and also results accordingly. Richard Hill wrote in TRP a couple of weeks ago about the effect on the Champ, I think its more than that, I think its affecting National 1

There are many examples I can point out, but the main two are Taunton's side going to Blackheath and the Rams subs coming on at half time v Cinderford on loan from Irish.

Now look, I really do not have an issue with clubs at this level using DR/Loan players the issue I have is making National 1 a level playing field, between the have(relationship with prem side) and have not’s

Two weeks ago we saw Taunton get thumped at Blackheath, people can make up countless reasons why and Im not taking anything away from Blackheath’s win, but one of the main reasons as I see it that sticks out were the two half backs (Munders and Walsh) that have guided them so far this season, we're both playing for Exeter as well as others missing, so was that a real Titans National 1 side that has played others and gained very good wins, or did Blackheath get lucky and if they had played them this week the side would have been totally different as they would have retuned. 

You the add into that equation this weeks Rams v Cinderford game. Which was a great  clash, do not get me wrong. But why should Rams be able to strengthen their side with the addition of prop at half time from London Irish in Haffar, they had props that were playing  In the 2s that have had plenty of 1st xv rugby, but they bring in a guy  that has not played a single minute for Rams (please correct me if I'm wrong) and it changed the game after half time. Everybody that has an ounce of knowledge about National 1 know you go to Sale or DMP and its a totally different side, than you face if you are at home, because when they are home Sale and Falcons want their players to have a run,but when away these guys don't fancy it, but why be allowed to pick and chose

I totally understand the reason for loan players, I think personally the max should be 4 of DR/loan or mix in your match day squad, 20% of your playing squad on the day, as its affecting the results in this league and it’s at times not a level playing field, that brings into question the whole competition. I think a loan player should be with the club for the season at the start of the season, and unless you have major injury issues that’s it, not be able to bring in a prop because you are playing a side that can scrum mid week! 

At the end of this season if its 1, 3 or 5 that go up to the Champ, it's not an issue, the issue will be the arms race that will start in Jan getting players dual reg before the cut off. But then what club is going up, is it your club that’s been in National 1 or is it a mix of your club topped up with half the side from Prem clubs which you will never see again? It will also mean some very big scores against sides at the bottom that do not have the luxury of being able too do this.

I really think it's a big issue this and the NCA should look at this now.