[quote=Jaickin]
Not sure if this has been discussed at all. Do you think there would be any added benefit/consequence if they made the playoffs include the Top Six similar to the A-League? The way this seasons rolled out, it would definitely give an incentive to keep up with the four teams who may potentially finish 6th.
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Why would you do that, overall standard this season is average and if you cannot make the top four you do not deserve to be in the playoff
Would probably give fans an incentive to watch the rest of the regular season due to their being a playoff race. More interest = more money, though I understand the sentiment of wanting your best teams in the playoffs.
extra cost, extra length. Relegation would be first port of call
I'd go the opposite.
If it's costing the AWs chance of international matches (scheduling clash semis with March window), I'd cancel the semifinals completely. If you don't finish in the top two, after two full rounds home and away, tough luck. Straight to a final, or even just a first past the post league winner.
Top two end of regular season going into OFC Champions League.
National team takes priority. After all the Handy Prem byline is 'where AWs are made'.