THERE can have been few more popular cup triumphs in recent years than Batley Bulldogs’ Northern Rail Cup win on Sunday, outside the town of Widnes of course.
The Bulldogs, one of the founder members of the Northern Union over a century ago, had not lifted a major trophy since 1924, when they won the old Championship by beating Wigan 13-7.
But their popularity this year has grown courtesy of their amiable coach Karl Harrison and the fact that the club has placed such faith in locally-based players.
Despite having won at the Vikings just a matter of weeks earlier, the Bulldogs were fairly significant outsiders before the final, with most bookmakers giving them an eight point start.
They would have been even longer odds when they trailed 15-24 in the closing stages of a gripping match at Bloomfield Road.
But two late scores by winger Alex Brown – the second with less than four minutes remaining – clinched a famous win, and sent their 2,000 army of supporters into raptures.
It also put tears into the eyes of their long-serving chairman Kevin Nicholas, and no doubt several other of their loyal supporters.
But unlike the Vikings in 2009, their win is unlikely to be followed by a Super League application. The Bulldogs have been constantly and publicly realistic about their ambitions, stating their desire to establish themselves further in the Co-operative Championship.
So could Batley be a model for other clubs in a similar position?
Clubs like – and without wanting to offend anyone – Dewsbury Rams, Keighley Cougars and Whitehaven, whose facilities and supporter base are not at the required standard for Super League at present.
There are several others in Championship One who could aspire to be a strong outfit at the higher level, without harbouring genuine hopes of a top-flight licence.
But can such ambitions work? Many people’s objections to the licence system surround a belief that it kills off dreams, for three years at a time at least.
But Batley may be able to show that they can grow as a club – the 2,000 traveling fans was a major boost given their average home attendances – even if they are not aiming for the bright lights of Super League.
Harrison has spoken openly about his belief that the Championship is the level where Batley Bulldogs can thrive, and it will be fascinating to monitor their progress in the wake of the NRC triumph.
They may just be able to prove that Super League isn’t the be-all and end-all that some people would have you believe.
by Gareth Walker
Batley’s Northern Rail Cup triumph will be featured in Rugby League World, issue 353, on sale 6th August. Don’t miss it!
