NRL Bottom Eight: What Went Wrong?

It's a case of "better luck next year" for the eight sides who didn't cut the mustard in the NRL this year.

While the best eight sides live to fight another day, that's it for the bottom eight in 2008. For these teams, there's nothing left to do but enjoy summer and start planning for next year.

We thought we'd take a look at the sides that were on the wrong side of the eight, and have a look at what went wrong:

Newcastle Knights (9th)

The Knights were "oh so close" to playing September footy, but were pipped at the post by the Warriors. After last year, though, you'd have to say 2008 has been a great improvement, and Brian Smith looks to be developing some strong talent.

The biggest improvement for the Knights is that they've learned to win without the great Andrew Johns, which is something they've struggled to do in years past. Unfortunately, next year they'll have to learn to win without Danny Buderus.

2009 Gains: Issac De Gois (Sharks), Ben Rogers (Dragons)

2009 Losses: Danny Buderus (Leeds), Chris Bailey (Sea Eagles), Mitchell Sargent (midseason, Castleford), Matt White (Titans)

Wests Tigers (10th)

Consistency has once again plagued the Tiger's season. They are capable of beating most sides in the competition, but have let themselves down with some terrible defensive efforts. If they can sort out their defence, 2009 will be a lot better for West's fans.

2009 Gains: Gareth Ellis (Leeds), Josh Lewis (Titans)

2009 Losses: Brett Hodgson (Huddersfield), Nick Youngquest (midseason, Bulldogs), Luke Harlen (midseason, Cowboys), Ben Te'o (Broncos), Matt Head (Dragons), Ryan O'Hara (Celtic Crusaders)

Parramatta Eels (11th)

After coming so close last year, the Eels have been disappointing in 2008. They've been their own worst enemies for most of the season, and just when it looked as though they were getting back to winning ways, they slumped again. And, once again, they have recruited poorly.

2009 Gains: No one!

2009 Losses: Tim Smith (midseason, Wigan), Mark Riddell (Wigan), Tony Williams (Sea Eagles), Chad Robinson (London Harlequins), Daniel Wagon (French Rugby League)

Penrith Panthers (12th)

Last year's wooden spooners made a good surge for the Top Eight during the middle of the year, but began to slip down the ladder towards the end of the regular season. For a team that boasts such a strong side, 12th place is not a good finish. 2009 isn't shaping up any better, either.

2009 Gains: Gavin Cooper (Titans)

2009 Losses: Tony Puletua (St. Helens), Richie Williams (sacked midseason), Joe Williams (midseason, Bulldogs), Luke Rooney (French Rugby), Luke Priddis (Dragons), Rhys Wesser (Rabbitohs), Shane Rodney (Sea Eagles)

Gold Coast Titans (13th)

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