I've seen the "success" of the PYL celebrated by NNSW with select stats justifying the decision to change the competition. Here are some more figures to throw into the mix:
40% of PYL div B grand finalists, including two winners, are now destined for Div 2.
While 0 Cooks Hill teams made a grand final, and 100% play Div 1 next year.
Olympic
Div 1 clubs started early recruitment with an advantage as they could guarantee div 1 football and poach as they please. Same will happen next year, making it difficult to retain talent to bring teams back up.

There may have been fewer blowouts but it's not an unqualified success.