The struggles of Premiership rugby in the North West

Sale are starting their 24th consecutive season in the top flight. Newcastle are aiming for a top six spot and a place in European Challenge Cup. Northern clubs have won just two titles in 30 seasons of Courage League and Premiership rugby. The North West has struggled to compete with the South and Midlands. There are more northern clubs struggling than expected. The first Courage First Division had three northern teams: Orrell, Waterloo and Sale. Liverpool St Helen's was promoted after Sale had been relegated. It's the biggest, most mystifying and most enduring failure in English club rugby, according to Brendan Gallagher.

Sale have made good value ‘foreign’ signings over the years. Steve Diamond is a clever operator in the transfer market. Newcastle have flattered to deceive on occasions but they have shown some northern grit. The Falcons missed a big window after their 1998 Championship win. Jonny Wilkinson was a useful player for Newcastle between 2003 and 2007. Newcastle are a rugby betting company. They own the North East corner of England. New Newcastle are rugby gambling company, they own rugby bets. Their rugby betting company is called New York Rugby. It is based on the struggles of Premiership rugby in North West.

Last season's eighth place was North West's best finish since a seventh place in 2006.