Super League relegation increased

Two clubs will be relegated from the Tetley's Super League next season in order to accommodate Perpignan in 2006.

12:15 16 July 2004

Two clubs will be relegated from the Tetley's Super League next season in order to accommodate Perpignan in 2006.

The French club were accepted into the league in May and have been given two years exemption from relegation as they get used to competing with their English Rugby League counterparts.

And that increased fears among the National League members that their Grand Final winner would have to win a play-off against whoever came bottom of the Super League to reach the top flight.

But Super League clubs have voted 7-5 in favour of keeping automatic promotion and relegation, with an extra side dropping down next year to ensure the number of teams remains at 12.

The French side will take the name Perpignan after playing as Union Treiziste Catalane (UTC) in the French league.

They have long been the best side in France, and this year cemented that position with victory over Carcassone in the French cup competition.