Edinburgh to join NL2

Scotland could have a team in National League Two within the next couple of years according to plans announced at an Edinburgh press conference.nnThe move, similar to the inclusion of Celtic Crusaders in the Co-operative National League, could see an Edinburgh-based semi-professional side.nnScotland coach Steve McCormack said: “Plans are at a very early stage but, within the next two to three years, there could be a Scottish team operating in division two.”nnMcCormack’s assistant Dave Rotheram added: “This is the route which has taken Celtic Crusaders to Super League. Two years ago they entered division two and consolidated before winning the title in 2007 on the way to a franchise.”nnScotland succeeded in qualifying for this year’s RL World Cup with victory over Wales and there is grassroots rugby league in the country with teams such as Edinburgh Eagles.nnEagles coach Angus McNab, who guided his side to a 54-4 Scottish Grand Final victory over Fife Lions, believes their is enough Scottish talent for a team to compete at that level.nn“If a Scottish team are admitted to the national leagues then I envisage we could hold our own with a large number of home-based players,” said McNab.nn“I’ve identified at least five premiership rugby union players with the ability to do really well in rugby league where they could boost career prospects.nn“For example, John Cox, of Currie, was one of the stars of our team that went through all eight matches in the Scottish Conference unbeaten, scoring a 60-metre try in the final which is unusual for a prop forward.nn“Others could follow his example especially if we can gain entry to the national leagues and there are parallels to be drawn with Celtic Crusaders who recently attracted over 100 players for under-19 trials.”nnWith the Super League license system it is more than probable that the aim is for a Scotland-based Super League team sooner rather than later.