It's a time slot that suits pretty much nobody, but NRL CEO Todd Greenberg is standing by Friday games with a 6pm kick-off time for the 2018 season.
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Though now ensuring no overlap of games on a Friday night, rugby league fans certainly haven't warmed to the earlier kick-off which makes it nearly impossible for those with a traditional nine to five job to attend.
Answering a range of questions during a Twitter question and answer session, Greenberg confirmed the game time won't be getting altered next season.
Yes - back again in 2018. Great opportunity for young fans to see a game although we need to do better to schedule games in the right venues https://t.co/LuG2FuwJMU
— Todd Greenberg (@Todd_Greenberg) August 9, 2017
In a pretty open half hour, the NRL boss took on a range of questions and complaints dominating the game, with cheaper family ticketing for finals and the NRL's intention to take more games to the bush particularly note worthy.
Keep your eyes out for $50 family tickets at the upcoming finals series in Sydney @NRL https://t.co/5FQIoXvLhG
— Todd Greenberg (@Todd_Greenberg) August 9, 2017
All Clubs were given guidance for planning their 2018 salary cap back in April. Hope to have a final position soon https://t.co/0MZ4joX7IN
— Todd Greenberg (@Todd_Greenberg) August 9, 2017
Scheduling is always a balance...Thursday night footy has millions watching on TV across the country but we also need to focus on crowds too https://t.co/vbcdwbF1Mr
— Todd Greenberg (@Todd_Greenberg) August 9, 2017
Yes, Standby for more details on this in the coming months. Celebrating the history & heritage of the game is fundamental https://t.co/5sUDoNxp21
— Todd Greenberg (@Todd_Greenberg) August 9, 2017
It's a tough game, Need a rest occasionally. Shot clock has reduced time wastage at scrums/drop outs & ball in play time is at record levels https://t.co/6LRFnXOA30
— Todd Greenberg (@Todd_Greenberg) August 9, 2017
Trying to play more premiership games in the bush in 2018 than we are currently....small but important steps! https://t.co/cS3e0b7J5t
— Todd Greenberg (@Todd_Greenberg) August 9, 2017
Agree that the cost of food & beverage is an issue! We must continue to work with our Clubs & Stadiums to address & improve https://t.co/74SuqAc4vW
— Todd Greenberg (@Todd_Greenberg) August 9, 2017
Thursday night TV ratings much higher than Monday nights! We'd love games every day & night of the week...but too hard for player workload! https://t.co/2Z89tGJlZ6
— Todd Greenberg (@Todd_Greenberg) August 9, 2017
I make myself available for TV & radio regularly & will continue to do so. Plus I am online now answering your questions directly. https://t.co/aUWB5WhD1b
— Todd Greenberg (@Todd_Greenberg) August 9, 2017
Greenberg has had a difficult season to contend with in 2017 with a range of issues from poor refereeing to NRL scheduling leaving fans less than impressed.
Replacing Dave Smith as NRL CEO in March last year, Greenberg arrived in the top job with experience as the Head of Football for the NRL and CEO of the Canterbury Bulldogs.
Thrown in the deep end following the Eels salary cap scandal that dominated headlines in 2016, Greenberg was put to the test straight away and has since struggled to win over fans.
His attempt to answer fan questions directly via social media on Wednesday was a pretty bold move to garner some good will, however a few of his answers are unlikely do him any favours.
