Lawyers the only winners in Harris saga (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Lawyers the only winners in Harris saga

1:40pm Friday 1st February 2008 in

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There’s only going to be one winner in the Bulls-Rhinos-Iestyn Harris battle and it’s not either of the Super League clubs, the player himself or the game of rugby.
The fat cat legal teams involved are the ones rubbing their hands knowing they are going to just get fatter and fatter, the longer this bitter issue remains unresolved.
It seems to be steam-rolling towards the High Court – and more huge expense – while everyone is asking why?
No one, not even the most ardent Rhinos fan, would surely want to see the Bulls go out of business, which is a realistic end-game if Leeds push on with their claim.
The champions could show some champion spirit. They have a chance to bring it all to a swift close, saving further embarrassment to the sport and any more financial burden being heaped on themselves and their great rivals.
But, equally so, they could be utterly ruthless. Having already come so far – it is nearly four years since Harris signed – and invested so much time, money and energy, you can see why the Rhinos might decide to see it all the way through and have their day, or seven, in court.
Peter Hood’s revelation this week, going public about the amount Leeds are trying to claim and the effect it could have on the Bulls, may have been an effort to shame their neighbours into submission.
But I fear it’s too little too late and this sorry saga will run until everyone’s dirty linen is washed so very publicly and damagingly in London.
Then those lawyers will be elated but the game of rugby league will be in the gutter.
Hopefully common sense – and not pound signs – will prevail.