So if you have a little time (and extra fuel), what's wrong with having a couple of tries? (Particularly if the QRH says "recycle", which obviously means it is not a danger to do so).
A wise man once said "Rules are for the slavish following of fools, and the guidance of wise men". (Thanks, "Starch")
This whole thread has turned into a wankfest. The crew had a gear problem, they dealt with it with a successful outcome - end of story. Who cares?