Gallent effort in the football code war

Rugby league sure packs a punch, and last night Paul Gallen socked one right in the face of the A-League. With one right hook (and then a left, another right, and several more from each fist) the NSW skipper took control of the code war in Australia, reaffirming rugby league as the country's most popular sport.

State of Origin is effectively the pinnacle of rugby league. Forget the national team, players are more passionate about representing their state than in the Kangaroos for their country. And this passion is displayed on the Origin field; more often than not in a punch up. And there's nothing more Aussie than celebrating a bunch of larrikins hitting eachother.

Suit up, Gallen. You're a hero now.

So it makes sense that this morning the media reports on last night's incident - in which Paul Gallen was placed on report for repeatedly punching Queenslander Nate Myles - are largely positive. It's this response that means the A-League will never be Australia's number one sport.

The clean cut A-League, with it's zero tolerance on violence and it's impeccable record of dealing with on-field scuffles, can never truly rise to the popularity of the more brutal, base, NRL. It just won't happen. Not until Australians cease excusing these kinds of violent outbursts with cop-outs such as "a great Origin moment".

Face it football fans, you're fighting a losing battle. Best thing to do is curl up in a ball and start watching State of Origin. Hey, at least it's not a one horse race this year.

Carn Blues.