The end is not nigh- Elite League

The Elite League have just issued a press release alleging that Newcastle, Edinburgh and Manchester were aware of the EIHL meeting on Monday, but following the decision to continue next season with the same wage cap and playing conditions as this season, despite a worldwide recession, those three clubs failed to appear.

The press release reads:

"Over the past months there has been considerable consultations and meetings between the elite league clubs regarding a plan going forward.All clubs in one way or another have had to consider how best to adapt to the economic climate in order to ensure progress for their club.

The process culminated in a meeting on Monday 30^th March of those clubs who were, with out conditions, committed to participation in the 2009/10 season.

The clubs not present, but fully aware of the meeting being held, had consistently throughout earlier meetings and correspondence put forward a number of points which they required to be considered or adopted by the league.

Immediately following the meeting all clubs were advised of the out come, which is to continue effectively under the same playing conditions as was the case in 2008/2009 and the league presently awaits the remaining clubs to formally confirm if they are continuing there involvement in the league."

The stance of the Excel Hull Stingrays now seems to make more sense, given that the import levels and wage cap will stay the same as this season. The Stingrays, who, truth be told, rely on large away followings from teams like Sheffield and Nottingham, have continually said that a change of league is not a viable option, with both the NPL and EPL posing increased travel costs and smaller away followings.

But with added impetus put on marketing the club next season, with a new coach and a new approach, it is presumably hoped that the Stingrays can increase crowds whilst retaining the large away crowds.

One thing is for sure, this is certain to run and run, with the Manchester Phoenix issuing their thoughts on the events with a 'major press release' at 7am tomorrow morning.