byPeter D. Corcoran OAM

© Copyright & Intellectual Property Rights Strictly Reserved

( Based on Australian Rugby League

Law Book - 2006 Edition )

2006 EDITIONA GUIDE TO THE

INTERNATIONAL

LAWS OF

RUGBY LEAGUE

IMPORTANT

This is not a Law book. It isintended merely to convey ageneral knowledge of the mainaspects of the Game’s Laws.

A GUIDE TO THE

INTERNATIONAL LAWSOF

RUGBY LEAGUE

byPeter D. Corcoran OAM

© Copyright & Intellectual Property Rights Strictly Reserved

( Based on Australian Rugby League

Law Book - 2006 Edition )

2006 EDITION

This book is copyright. Other than for thepurposes of study, research, criticism or review, andsubject to the conditions prescribed under theCopyright Act, no part of it may in any form or by anymeans (electronic, mechanical, microcopying, photocopying, recording or otherwise) bereproduced, stored in a retrieval system ortransmitted WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTENPERMISSION FROM THE AUTHOR. Inquiriesshould be addressed to the Author.

First printed... 1985Reprinted...1985,1986,1987,1988,1989,1990,1991,1992(2),

1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2004, 2005, 2006

© Peter D. Corcoran OAM 1985

NATIONAL LIBRARY OF AUSTRALIA“A GUIDE TO THE INTERNATIONAL LAWS OFRUGBY LEAGUE” ISBN 0 909832 06 4ISNB 0 909832 06 41. RUGBY FOOTBALL - RULES/LAWS.I. CORCORAN, PETER D. II. ROTHMANS NATIONALSPORT FOUNDATION. III. AUSTRALIAN RUGBYLEAGUE.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTWhenever a work of this nature is

attempted, much advice and guidanceis necessary.

To those who, over the years, haveassisted me, I wish to express my gratitude.Without their unselfish assistance - at allstages of the research, this booklet would

not have been possible. All who benefit from this work also owethem a debt of gratitude .

Over the years, also, there have been many dedicated RugbyLeague people, some now deceased, who have been of greathelp to me and have contributed enormously to the game. Tothese I offer a sincere “Thank You” from all who, like them, lovethis game dearly.

To Max Foley, the illustrator, a special word of thanks for hisexcellent contribution.

To those, also, who have reviewed successive editions beforepublication - my sincere thanks! Their comments have been ofgreat value.

PETER D. CORCORAN OAMAuthor

PETER CORCORAN OAM, is currently the ARLFoundation’s National Education Manager . It was hewho “designed” the Modified Games Program and boththe MINI FOOTY and MOD LEAGUE formats.

After many years of lecturing and teaching - and as manyseasons of successful coaching, Peter now directs thecode’s Education Schemes / Programs. He is author ofmany technical books & articles on Rugby League andsports coaching.

He has coached and lectured throughout Australia and overseas. He hasbeen Head Coach of the National Youth Group since its inception and wasCoach of the A.R.L. President’s XIII which played the P.N.G.R.L. “Kumuls”on the occasion of their 10th Anniversary of Independence in 1985. Hehas been, for some years, Patron of the Tasmanian Rugby League. Heis a life Member of the Australian Tertiary Students Rugby League.

For over a decade and a half, Peter was Chairman of both the AustralianCoaching Council (A.C.C.), the A.C.C. Technical Committee, and was theDeputy Chairman of Sport Coaches Australia. He has been a member ofmany committees dealing with coaching, sport safety and coach and ref-ereeing education.

He was awarded the Medal in the Order of Australia (OAM) in theAustralian Day 1988 Honours List for his services to the game of RugbyLeague. In 1989, Peter was awarded the Confederation of AustralianSports’ Fellowship of Distinction. In 1998, he was the recipient of theA.C.C.’s “Eunice Gill” Award for services to coach education andcoaching. In 2002,Peter was made a Fellow of the Australian Instituteof Company Directors and the Institute of Sports Management. In 2003,he was awarded the NSW Sports Federation Distingushed ServiceAward, the Sport Industry Australia High Distinction Award & the ASC“Ausport” Officials Development Award. He was also elected a LifeMember of the NSWRL.

Formerly the ARL National Director of Coaching (1977-1994), he was theARL National Manager Coaching & Refereeing (1994 - 2000).

AUTHOR

INTRODUCTIONThis booklet is not meant to replace the International Laws of

the Game Booklet which is issued annually through the AustralianRugby League.

Anyone wishing to become a referee or gain a more completeknowledge of the Laws should study the official Australian RugbyLeague Laws outline and the NRAS books . . . they were preparedfor such a purpose.

However, there are people who may find the official Laws a “little heavy” to read and, consequently, are confused by someLaws and/or their interpretations. These people may range anywhere along the code’s “spectrum” from the loyal supporter tothe newcomer “convert” to the “beginner referee”.

It is the intention of this booklet to offer the reader a simpleoutline of the major points of Rugby League Law.

When offering simplified outlines there is always the risk ofover-simplification or, perhaps, not treating a particular law in sufficient depth. Remember that the referee is the sole legalarbiter in any situation, is normally in a far better position than others to judge and is far more qualified to adjudicate. So - support the referee! Don’t be too harsh or critical if you find youare not in agreement with every ruling.

Opinions and proper judgements are not necessarily always the same.

It is to be hoped that this outline achieves its aims and the reader finishes the booklet a far wiser and better educated fan ofthe “Greatest Game of All”

PETER D CORCORAN OAM

CONTENTS

PAGE1. THE GAME’S FRAMEWORK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

Mode of Play . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1Ball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1Playing Field . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2Scoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3Players’ Positions and Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4Time-keepers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

2. KICK-OFF AND DROP-OUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93. LAWS QUIZ No.1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .114. TOUCH AND TOUCH IN-GOAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135. LAWS QUIZ No.2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .156. KNOCK-ON AND FORWARD PASS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .177. LAWS QUIZ No.3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .188. TACKLE AND PLAY-THE-BALL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .209. LAWS QUIZ No.4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2510. SCRUM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2711. LAWS QUIZ No.5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3112. PENALTY KICK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3313. LAWS QUIZ No.6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3614. OFFSIDE PLAY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3815. LAWS QUIZ No.7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3916. MISCONDUCT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4117. DUTIES OF REFEREES AND TOUCH JUDGES ... . . . . . .4318. REFEREES’ AND TOUCH JUDGES’ SIGNALS . . . . . . . .4619. GLOSSARY OF TERMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5220. ANSWERS TO LAWS QUIZZES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57

1

THE GAME’S FRAMEWORK

MODE OF PLAY• Once a captain has won the toss he must choose whether to

kick off or which end his team will defend. The team losing thetoss will then take the other option.

• While the game is in progress, any on-side player, who is inplay, can:

• run with the ball,

• kick the ball, and

• throw, knock or head the ball anywhere except towards hisopponent’s dead-ball line.

His opponents will try to stop a player running, kicking or passingby tackling him - only, of course, while he has the ball.

BALL• BALL MUST BE:

OVAL; LIGHT IN COLOUR AND OF APPROVED SIZEAIR-INFLATEDOF LEATHER OR APPROVED MATERIALOF NO DANGER TO PLAYERS

• IF THE BALL BURSTS:

(a) as a goal kick is attempted - the player is given anotherattempt!

(b) as a player grounds it for a try - a try!(c) on any other occasion the ball is replaced and a scrum

restarts play . . . the team last in possession has the loosehead and scrum “feed”

PLAYING FIELDTHE PLAN OF THE PLAYING FIELD AND ITS MARKINGS ARE

PART OF THE LAWS OF THE GAME

2

3

SCORING• The primary AIM of the game is to defeat an opponent by

scoring more points - either through tries, goals (conversionsor penalties) or field goals.

• Scores determine who wins, loses or draws (i.e. if points areequal).

REMEMBER• If a ball lands on the touch line it’s

in touch.• If a ball lands on the touch in-goal

lines or hits a corner post, then it’sin touch in-goal.

• The goal line is part of the in-goalarea.

• The dead ball line is not part of thein-goal area.

• A player standing on the touch lineis “out”

• If a player jumps from in touch andgathers, or knocks the ball backinto the field of play the ball is still“in touch”

4

PLAYERS’ POSITIONS AND EQUIPMENT

• 13-a-side on field at any one time.

• The Replacement Rule may vary locally

• Internationally - only 4 replacements and 12 interchanges areallowed.

- once replaced, a player (of the 17 listed) can beused again as a replacement

- a short "blood bin" replacement is not an inter-change replacement

- referee may sanction a replacement only during a stoppage of play or when the player tobe replaced has left the playing field.

• A replacement, used when a player leaves the field because ofprofuse bleeding, does not count as an official replacement.When the injured player returns to the field, he must replace theplayer who replaced him.

PLAYERS AREARRANGED

FOR A KICK-OFF

• • • The names of the respective playing positions are: -

5

• IMPORTANT

(a) Dangerous gear/clothing is forbidden and must be removed- this includes even protectiveequipment if it is dangerous.

(b) Boot studs must have roundededges.

(c) Colours of a team’s jersey mustbe easily distinguishable andnot clash with those of theiropponents.

(Extra numbersfor Reserves)

Group Position NumberBacks Full Back 1

Right Wing Threequarter 2Right Centre Threequarter 3Left CentreThreequarter 4Left Wing Threequarter 5Five-Eighth 6Scrum Half (Halfback) 7

Forwards Prop Forward 8Hooker 9Front Row Forward 10Second Row Forward 11Second Row Forward 12Lock 13

6

Remember:• Only a referee can award a try.• A try is scored if the ball is grounded on the

goal line but not at the foot (and in front) of thegoal posts.

• Losing the ball after grounding it doesn’t disallow the try.

• A try cannot be scored while it is in a scrum - i.e. no “push over” tries.

• You may, after picking up the ball at the rearof a scrum, bore through your forwards toscore.

TRY (4 points)

Scored Awarded

When a player correctly grounds the ball Where the ballin his opponent’s in-goal provided he is is grounded.not in touch or touch in-goal or over thedead ball line.When an attacker and a defender ground Where the ballthe ball together and the attacker is not is grounded.out of play (as in (a) above).When an attacker is tackled while in the Where thefield of play and slides into the in-goal player crossesthrough his momentum - provided he’s the goal line.not out of play at any time (as above).When, in the referee’s opinion, a player At the centrewould have definitely scored only for the of the goalunfair play of a defender . . . penalty try. posts.When a player, before he can ground the Where contactball, collides with the referee, a touch occurred.judge or an encroaching spectator in thein-qoal area.

7

GOALS

Type Scored from Points

Conversion Place kick taken along a line in 2 (two)of Try the field of play parallel to the

touch line and opposite wherethe try was scored.

Penalty Goal Place or drop kick taken from the 2 (two)penalty mark or on a “line” fromthe mark parallel to the touchlines and extending towards thekicker’s goal line.

Field (i.e. Drop kick at any position within 1 (one)Drop) Goal the field of play during general

play.

8

• It is the duty of the referee to see that - • all conversion and penalty kicks are taken from the correct spot• the kicker does not waste time unnecessarily• the touch judges are in position to assist him to judge the kick’s suc-

cess• the kicker isn’t guilty of misconduct at a kick - e.g. pretend to take a

kick at goal and kick it elsewhere

TIMEKEEPERS• International, and most Senior, games extend over two forty minute

halves with a ten minute break between.Locally this may differ. Modifiedgames for youngsters differ. Timekeepers are normally appointed toassist the referee.

• Teams “change ends” each half.

• Upon the completion of the timelimit, the referee waits till the ballis out of play or until the nexttackle is effected and then haltsthe game. He may extend play toallow for a conversion, penalty orfree kick.

• Time is not normally stopped forinjuries. It is the referee’s duty tosee that stoppages are kept to aminimum.

9

THE KICK-OFF AND DROP-OUT

• Starts of play take place at the centre of the (1) halfway line(2) 20 metre line(3) goal line

• The advantage rule is not applied at starts of play.• Any infringement, at starts of play, by either team results in a

penalty at the centre of the respective “kick off” line...except at a goal line drop-out where the penalty is given at thecentre of the 10 metre line.

• All players of the kicking team (a) must remain behind the ballwhen starting play from halfway (i.e. place kick) and when a 20metre drop-out is taken; (b) must be in the in-goal area when agoal line drop-out is taken.

• At the 20 metre optional kick, the ball may be kicked in any manner and in any direction and is immediately in play. Theplayer taking the kick is the ONLY player who may stand in frontof the ball.

• At the halfway kick-off, 20 metre drop-out and goal line drop-outthe ball must travel 10 metres in a forward direction and mustland or be caught in the playing field.

• All players of the non-kicking team must stand at least 10metres from the “kick-off line” and players of both teams must allow the ball to travel 10 metres forward where requiredby the Laws.

TYPE OF KICK WHY GIVEN

Halfway Kick-Off • At start of game (as determined after toss).(always a Place • At start of second half (taken by alternate team).Kick) • When points have been scored (taken by non-scoring

team).20 metre Drop • When ANY penalty kick “goes dead in-goal”Kick directly from an attacking player.

Goal line • A defending player last touches the ball beforeDrop-Out it “goes dead in-goal”

• A defender accidentally infringes in the in-goalarea.

• A defender “forces the ball” in the in-goal areaother than when knocked-on by an attackingplayer from the field of play into the in-goalarea, or knocked-on in the in-goal area.

• A defender in possession is tackled in the in-goal area.

• A defender kicks the ball into touch on the full(or it rebounds) from his own in-goal.

• A player kicking off from the halfway line makesthe ball dead in his opponents’ in-goal.

• A defending player collides with the referree ortouch judge while in possession and attemptingto clear the ball from the in-goal.

• A ball, in the in-goal and not in the possessionof a player, touches the referee or touch judgeand play is irregularly affected.

• In general play, a ball - kicked or passed by adefending player, accidentally strikes anattacking player before going dead in - goal.

20 metre Optional • An attacking player makes the ball dead.Kick - • An attacking player accidentally infringes in hisi.e. any type of opponents’ in-goal area.kick in any • If a defending player - in his own in-goal, direction catches an attacking player’s kick from

general play.• In general play, an attacking player kicks or

passes the ball which accidentally strikesdefending player before going dead in - goal.10

11

Now - try your handas a referee!

STARTS OF PLAYA. The Kick off

Q. 1. From the Halfway Line(a) The ball is kicked off and it lands

on the corner post on the full.(b) The ball is kicked off and it travels

20 metres down field and landson the touch line on the full.

(c) The ball is kicked off and aftertravelling 10 metres, in a forward direction, it is blownback and goes into touch, on the full, 5 metres behindthe point from where it was kicked.

(d) The ball is kicked off and travels between the opponent’sgoal posts (and over the crossbar) landing on the deadball line on the full.

The answer to all these questions is the same. What is it?Why?

Q. 2. (a) The ball is kicked off, and lands In the field of play andthen hits the corner post.

(b) From the kick off, the ball lands in the in-goal area on thefull and then goes over the dead-ball line without beingtouched by a defending player.

(c) From the kick off, the ball accidentally strikes an opponent 10 metres from the goal line and is thendeflected onto the comer post or touch in-goal line.

The answer to these 3 questions is the same. What is it?

20 metre Drop-Out

Q.3. (a) A team takes the 20 metre drop-out. The ball travels 10metres forward, is blown back and hits the corner poston the full.

continued next page

LAWS QUIZ No.1

12

(b) A team takes a 20 metre drop out. The ball travels 10metres forward and is blown back over the dead-ball lineon the full.

(c) A team takes a 20 metre drop out. The ball travels 6 metresforward and stops.

All these occurrences give rise to the same referee’s decision.What is it? Why?

Goal Line Drop-Out

Q.4. (a) The ball is drop kicked 20 metres forward and is caught onthe full by an opponent who has one foot on the touch lineand one foot in the field of play.

(b) A player, from the kicking side, moves over the goal line asthe kick is taken. The ball finds touch 30 metres upfieldafter landing in the field of play.

(c) The ball is punt kicked the required distance and “findstouch”.

(d) The ball is correctly kicked and travels 10 metres forwardbefore being blown back and landing (1) on the cornerpost; or (2) over the dead ball line, on the full.

The answer to (a), (b), (c), (d) IS the same. What is it?

20 metre Optional Kick

Q.5. (a) The optional kick is taken correctly. The kicker re-gathers,runs 5 metres and is tackled by an opponent who was notback 10 metres.

(b) The optional kick is taken quickly. An opponent, stillendeavouring to get back into an on-side position, immediately tackles the ball-carrier from behind as theball- carrier attempts to nun.

The answer for (a) & (b) is the same! What is it?(c) The ball does not leave the kicker’s hands at the optional

kick. The kicker merely holds the ball and puts a foot to theball before running off - in possession.

(d) When the kick is taken, a player from the kicking side -other than the kicker, is in front of the baIl

The answer for (c) and (d) is the same! What is it?For Answers...see p.57

13

TOUCH AND TOUCH IN-GOAL• If a ball lands on the touch line it is “out”. If the ball or a player in

contact with it touches the corner post, touch line or the groundbeyond, then the ball is “out”.

• If the ball is kicked or rebounds forward from a player (while inthe field of play) and goes into touch on the full then a scrum isset where contact was made, but no less than 20 metres fromtouch line & 10 metres from goal line.

• When the ball lands in touch or touch in-goal the ball is consideredout or “dead” (for touch in-goal) where it first crossed the line.

• The ball is out if a player jumps from outside the touch line andmakes contact with the ball while in the air.

• The ball is not out if, during flight, it crosses the touch line but isknocked back by a player who is off the ground after first jumping from within the playing field.

• The ball is not out if it crosses the touch line but is blown backinto the playing field before landing.

14

• The ball is dead, in the IN-GOAL AREA, if the ball (or a player incontact with it) touches the corner post, the dead-ball line, thetouch in-goal line, or the ground beyond these lines.

Note: The PLAYING FIELD is the FIELD OF PLAYtogether with the IN-GOAL AREAS.

The Referee is the Sole Judge of FACT

15

TOUCH & TOUCH IN-GOAL

What is your decision in each of these situations?Q.1. (a) A player kicks the ball, on the full, from general play to an

opponent, standing on the touch line, who catches it onthe full.

(b) A player kicks the ball from general play, on the full to anopponent, standing on the touch line, who knocks theball on and it lands in the field of play.

(c) A player kicks the ball from a penalty kick to an opponent,standing on the touch line, who catches It on the full.

(d) A player kicks the ball downfield in general play. While theball is still in the air, an opposition player jumps fromtouch and, while off the ground, touches the ball beforeit lands back in the field of play.

(e) A player kicks the ball downfield In general play. Anopposition player jumps from the field of play and whilein the air taps the ball backwards into the field of play.

(f) A player, in the air while diving for a try, touches thecorner post while still holding the ball and before ground-ing the ball.

continued next page

LAWS QUIZ No.2

16

TOUCH AND TOUCH IN GOAL

Q.2. After 5 play-the-balls, the acting halfback runs towards touchand is tackled over the touch line. What’s the decision?

Q.3. A player in possession is tackled one metre from the touchlineand is then pulled into touch. What would the referee “rule”here?

Q.4. A defending player, in his own in-goal, kicks the ball (in general play). The ball rebounds from an attacking playerstanding 10m into the field of play and then strikes thecorner post on the full?

For Answers...see p. 57/58

17

KNOCK-ON AND FORWARD PASS

Knock-OnA knock-on occurs when a player, while playing at the ball, accidentally knocks the ball forward with his hand or arm andtowards his opponents’ dead ball line.The knock-on can only be nullified by the player who, having lostthe ball, regains or kicks the ball before it hits the ground, goalpostor an opposing player.A player is penalised if he “deliberately” knocks the ball on or deliberately heads the ball in a forward direction.

Forward PassThe referee decides whether a pass is “forward” or “deliberatelyforward”Generally, a pass goes forward because of the speed at which aplayer is travelling or simply by misjudgement. A scrum is thenformed where the pass was thrown, except after five play-the-balls.If, however, in the opinion of the referee the ball was deliberatelythrown forward or passed to a player in front of the ball-carrier, thatplayer is penalised at the point where the ball was passed.Should a player pass the ball in the correct manner, yet - becauseof the wind or by it bouncing on the ground, it goes forward, playshall continue.

Charge DownA defending player is entitled to charge down a kick . . . providingthe ball is rising from the kick. This may be done with any part ofthe body and play is allowed to continue. Remember, in a chargedown, even if the ball comes off the defender’s hands or arms, itis not a knock-on. ( Note: A kick doesn’t have to come off the boot. )

LAWS QUIZ No.3

18

KNOCK-ON &FORWARD PASS

How do you think the referee should“rule” in each of these instances?

Q. 1. (a) A team has won a scrum. The five-eighth passes to thecentre who fails to take the pass. The ball touches a hand(or arm) and goes forward - but is kicked by the centrebefore it hits the ground, and then goes into touch afterbouncing in the field of play.

(b) The five-eighth passes to the centre who fails to take thepass. After the ball goes forward, from the hand (or arm),the centre kicks It before It hits the ground, regains it andgrounds the ball in the opponents’ in-goal.

(c) The five-eighth passes to the inside centre who accidentallyknocks the ball forward with the hand (or arm). A colleaguecomes from behind the Inside centre and catches the ballbefore It hit the ground.

(d) The five-eighth passes the ball to the centre who does nottouch the ball with either hands or arms. It rebounds forward from the head or chest. The ball is regained by anon-side colleague who runs Into the in-goal, grounds theball and claims a try.

(e) The ball is passed to a support player who accidentallyknocks the ball on. The ball strikes either an oppositionplayer, or the goal posts, and Is regained by the player whoaccidentally knocked-on.

continued next page

19

(f) The ball is passed from player to colleague who accidentallyknocks-on 5 metres from the opponent’s goal line. Theball goes over the dead ball line (or into touch in-goal)without being touched by an opponent.

(g) The ball is passed from player to a colleague who accidentally knocks-on 7 metres from the opponent’sgoal line. The ball travels into the in-goal and is groundedby a defending player.

(h) The ball is passed by a player who is off-balance in a tackle. The ball travels in a forward direction. A colleagueruns onto the ball - from behind the player who passedthe ball, and is then tackled.

(i) The ball is passed by a player who Is off-balance in a tackle. The ball travels In a forward direction to a colleague who was in front of the player when he passedthe ball.

(j) A player, in possession of the ball, hears the full-time (orhalf-time) siren sound and throws the ball in a forwarddirection over the touch line.

For Answers...see p. 58

20

TACKLE AND PLAY-THE-BALL

The Tackle

A player in possession of the ball may be tackled by one or moreof the opposition players.For a tackle to be effected, the player in possession:• is held and the ball, or hand or arm holding the ball, comes into

contact with the ground.• is held and, in the opinion of the referee, can make no further

progress nor part with the ball ... or, the player makes it evidenthe wishes to play the ball.

• is Iying on the ground and an opponent places a hand on him.Should a player come in to assist his own player who, while in possession, is being forced backwards, then the referee shallimmediately call “held!” Should any doubt exist as to who has the possession of the ball, the referee shall call “play the ball, ....”

21

At a tackle, a penalty kick may result if -

(a) a defender:• steals the ball in a tackle where there is more than one

tacker - even though all but one “drop off” the tackle before itis stolen.

• tackles a player in mid - air while that player, from the non-kicking team, is attempting to field a ball from a kick on thefull.

• fails to release a player once the referee has called “held! “• moves, or attempts to move, a player from the spot where he

was effectively tackled.• tackles a player after the tackle has been called (i.e. a late

tackle).• uses any other type of tackle considered illegal.

(b) the player in possession:• intentionally parts with the ball once tackled (accidental loss

of the ball results in a scrum . . . except after five play-the-balls).

• is tackled near the goal line and makes a second movementto place the ball over the line.

• deliberately allows himself to be tackled by voluntarily fallingto the ground when not held and makes no attempt to continue play.

• after falling on a loose ball, he makes no effort to play on.

(c) a player of the side in possession:• interferes with the tacklers (i.e. a second tackle).

The Play-the-BallOnce a player has been tackled, he must:1. immediately rise to his feet with the ball in his possession; 2. face his opponents’ goal line;

22

3. drop or place the ball in front of his foremost foot; and4. play the ball with either foot backwards.The marker cannot kick at the ball while it is being played.The ball is clear of the ruck when it has been played backwards.The diagram below illustrates the formation taken up by the players when the ball is to be played.The team without the ball ( i.e. not in possession ) must retire at least 10m.The team with the ball ( i.e. in possession ) must be behind theacting halfback (i.e. dummy half)

• Attackers and defenders move forward once the ball has clearedthe ruck area...i.e. been played backwards.

The Tackle CountA team in possession is allowed five (5) successive play-the balls,but if tackled with the ball on the sixth occasion, it forfeits posses-sion and the opposition plays the ball at the point where the tacklewas effected. A “change of possession” also occurs, after five (5)play-the-balls, when the player in possession (1) knocks-on; (2)

23

passes forward; (3) kicks the ball directly into touch on the full; (4)runs (or is tackled) into touch; (5) throws the ball backwards intotouch; or (6) is held up in the opponent’s in-goal. These play-the-balls are not considered in the counting of tackles.During the course of play, the tackle count can be nullified. Thiscan only happen if an opposing player makes a deliberate play atthe ball (not in the possession of a player) and actually touchesit in doing so ... for example, he tries to intercept a pass, kicks theball or charges down a kick made by the side in possession.

NOTE: When a player knocks-on and an opponent gains possession,the following play-the-ball is not included in the tackle count - ie. a“zero tackle”... regardless of passes made or ground gained.

Held Up In-GoalShould an attacking player be held up in the opponents’ in-goalfrom Tackles 0 to 5, that player will play the ball 10 metres out inthe field of play opposite where the tackle was made. The tacklecount continues.

Some Items of Interest• If the continuance of play endangers an

injured player, the referee may stop thegame. Should this occur during “runningplay”, the game would recommence with ascrum - “loose head and feed” to the teamlast in possession; and, where play wasstopped. Should the stoppage occur at thetime of a tackle, the game recommences withthe playing of the ball.

• If a player is tackled while in possession,injured and unable to play the ball, and takenfrom the field, play would be resumed by acolleague playing the ball at the point wherethe injured player was tackled.

24

• If a player is tackled while in possession, injured and unable toplay the ball, the referee may allow play to continue - providedthere is no danger to the injured player by directing a colleague of the injured player to play the ball at a point five (5)metres in-field from the point where the player was injured.

• In a play-the-ball, the marker is not allowed to simply dive aroundand fall on the ball as it is played. This is considered to be a voluntary tackle. Should there be no acting halfback, it is permissible for a player to dive on the ball, when it clears the ruck,provided the player immediately regains his feet.

• If there is no marker and no acting halfback, the player playingthe ball may retrieve the ball as soon as he plays it backwards.

• If a player, once held, stands to play the ball and in doing sosteps into touch (i.e. puts his foot on or over the touch line), heis still allowed to play the ball in the field of play.

• A player due to the force of the tackle or because of his speedmay slide along the ground. The tackle is effected where hestops. Should such a slide result in the player in possessioncrossing his opponents’ goal line, then a try is awarded wherethe player crossed the goal line.

• If part of a tackled player’s body is on or over the goal line, butthe ball is in the field of play, the ball is played where the ball lies.

• If, however, a player is tackled in an upright position, while straddling the goal line, play is restarted with a play-the-ball 10metres out in the field of play opposite where the player washeld. The tackle count continues. If this is the “6th and last”tackle a change of possession will take place.

LAWS QUIZ No.4

25

TACKLE & PLAY-THE-BALL

You be the referee! What would you do in each instance?

Q.1. A player regains his feet and plays the ball in the correct manner.An opponent, standing in line with the marker, moves up andtackles the ball-receiver.

Q.2. When the ball is being played, the marker kicks the ball c/earof the play-the-ball area The ball is regained, by a teammate ofthe player who played the ball, who runs and is tackled.

Q.3. The ball is played after the fifth tackle.(a) The acting halfback runs and is tackled.(b) The first receiver knocks-on and regains possession.(c) The first receiver kicks the ball into touch on the full.(d) The ball is accidentally passed forward.

Q.4. The ball is played after the fifth tackle.(a) The first receiver kicks the ball downfield and ‘finds touch”

after the ball first landed in the field of play.(b) The first receiver kicks the ball backwards and it enters

touch either on the full or after landing in the field of play.(c) The ball is kicked and it accidentally strikes an opponent.

The ball then goes into touch.

continued next page

26

Q.5. A player plays the ball. No marker is present. The ball is placedon the ground, tapped forward with the foot, regained and theplayer moves downfield and is then tack/cd.

Q.6. When the ball is being played, the opposition’s acting halfbackstands to the side of the marker. When the ball is passed to thefirst receiver, the opposition’s acting halfback moves in andmakes a tack/e.

For Answers...see p. 59

NOTE: In the above questions,unless actually stated, any kickentering touch does not do sowithin 10 m of the goal-line.

27

THE SCRUMWHEN FORMEDScrums are a method of restarting play. UNLESS (1) ADVAN-TAGE applies; or, (2) a HANDOVER takes place AFTER five (5)play-the-balls (as indicated below by an asterisk,(*)) then scrumsare formed: - (*)(a)when the ball goes into touch from general play;(see also p. 23)

(b)when the ball goes into touch from general play after firstlanding in the field of play:

(*)(c)a knock-on occurs and the offending team regains possession.

(d) if a player makes contact with the ball after a penalty kickand the ball goes into touch.

(e) upon a breach by the kicking side at a penalty or free kick.(*)(f) following either a forward pass or offside - which are

ACCIDENTAL...and the offending team regains possession;(*)(g) should a double knock-on occur (i.e. both sides knock on -

one after the other).(h) if the ball, or a player with the ball, accidentally strikes the

referee, a touch judge, spectator, etc., and play is affected(Mutual Infringement).

(i) should the ball burst; or, the referee blows his whistle accidentally.

(*)(j) if an attacking player knocks-on in the field of play and theball is “made dead” by a defending player within the in-goalarea - the scrum being set 10 metres from the goal-line orwhere the knock-on occurred but no closer than 20 metresfrom the touch line.

(*)(k) if a tackled player is injured (see also p. 23).HOW FORMED• Not more than six (6) players will form the scrum. To form ascrum three (3) forwards (prop forward/hooker/prop forward)

The front row binding withhooker.

TheFrontRow

The front row showing body binding andpositions. (Hooker is using his nearer foot)

Halfback

28

will interlock arms and bend at the waist to later create a clear tunnel.The hooker must pack with his arms OVER THE SHOULDERSof his prop forwards.

• Two (2) forwards (second rowers) shall pack by interlocking armsand placing their heads in the spaces made between the front rowers’ hips. A lock forward will complete the formation by packing into the space between the second rowers’ hips.

• All forwards are to pack, initially, with their backs horizontal.• The number of forwards packing in the scrum will be governed

by the number of backs. No more than seven (7) backs are permitted. Minimum number in a scrum is three (3).

• All backs, other than the halfbacks, must retire 5 metres behindthe last line of forwards in their scrum. Non-feeding halfbackmust remain behind own last line of forwards.

WHO FEEDSThe NON-OFFENDING team will normally feed the scrum andhave the loose head, except -(i) when the ball bursts or the referee blows his whistle

accidentally, the team last in possession has both loose headand scrum feed.

(ii) in general play, if the ball accidentally strikes an opponent beforeentering touch, his team will have the loose head and scrum feed.

The SecondRow

The Scrum

29

(iii) at a mutual infringement . . . eg. the player in possession comesin contact with the referee and play is irregularly affected; theball strikes the referee; play is stopped because of a melee- and the aggressor is not identified . . . the attacking side hasthe loose head and scrum feed.

HOW FEDThe ball must be held at the ends and horizontally and ROLLEDinto the centre of the scrum along the ground. The feeding mustnot be unduly delayed and is from the side the referee stands.After feeding, the halfback must retire behind his OWN forwards.

WHEN AND HOW TO STRIKEOnce the ball has passed the inside leg of the nearer prop forward,both hookers may strike for the ball using EITHER foot (but notboth at once). Once the hooker has struck for the ball, other players involved in the scrum may also strike for the ball.The use of hands is not permitted when attempting to gain possession of the ball.

Path of Ball as it exits from the Scrum

30

WHEN IN PLAYTo be in play, the ball must pass THROUGH the inner feet (i.e.BETWEEN and BEHIND the inside feet) of the second row for-wards (see Diagram). At this time the lock forward can pick up theball and run or pass. If the ball does not emerge in the correctmanner and fault cannot be attributed to any one side, the ball willbe fed again.

WHERE FORMEDIf a scrum is to be formed it will generally take place where theoffence occurs. If, however, such an offence is WITHIN twenty(20) metres of a touch line or ten (10) metres of a goal line, thescrum shall be set twenty (20) metres in from the touch line andten (10) metres from the goal line.

SCRUM WHEELSOnce the ball has been fed, it is not an offence to wheel (screw)the scrum. Once the ball has emerged and is in play, any forwardmay gather or kick the ball. A back may also gain possession atthis time provided he had remained onside till the ball emerged.

(Note:If the packs are wheeled so that their positions are totallyreversed, the scrum is re-set.)

INFRINGEMENTSInfringements, including offside, during a scrum will normally resultin a DIFFERENTIAL PENALTY KICK. Exceptions are (1) the fail-ure of the lock forward to pack (resulting in eight (8) backs) - thisis a penalty kick; (2) foul play; and (3) the use of obscene or offen-sive language.Differential penalties, except for offside, are awarded on the mark.The awarding of a differential scrum penalty may be changed to apenalty kick if a subsequent breach warrants the advancement ofthe mark 1Om - once only.Differential penalties for offside are awarded where such playersbecame offside (i.e. in line with the last line of forwards involved inthe scrum - for the halfbacks; or, five (5) metres back for all otherbacks).

31

SCRUMS

Q. 1. The halfback feeds the scrum correctly and retires to be adjacent to his second row of forwards. The ball is won by theopposition and the halfback who fed the scrum moves up totackle the opposition halfback. How would you “rule”?

Q.2. When the scrum is fed, the outside centre of the non-feedingteam is standing in line with the lock forward. The ball is wonby the “feeding” team and, when the ball is passed along thebackline, the inside centre moves up and tackles the opposing centre. What does the referee “rule”?

Q.3. (a) The halfback feeds the scrum and the opposition lockbreaks from the scrum before the ball comes clear

(b) The ball is fed into the scrum and the opposition’s front rowforward deliberately breaks formation.

(c) The scrum, when fed, is collapsed by the non-feedingteam.

The ruling is the same! What is it? Where enforced?

Q.4. The lock does not pack into the scrum when the full complementof players (i.e. 13) is on the field. How does the referee “rule”?

continued next page

LAWS QUIZ No.5

32

Q.5. The halfback puts the ball into the scrum. While the ball is in thescrum, the scrum screws and is completely reversed. The halfback follows his forwards around and takes the ball after hisforwards have heeled it from the scrum. What is the correct ruling?

Q.6. When the scrum is won, the halfback (from behind the scrum)kicks the ball downfield to the opposition fullback who catchesthe ball cleanly. The front row forward from the kicking teamruns from the scrum and tackles the fullback who had notmoved. How would you “rule” if you were the referee?

For Answers ... see p.59/60

PENALTY KICKSWHY PENALISE? For (1) deliberate breaches of Law

(2) foul play(3) players’ misconduct

GIVEN WHERE? (1) Unless otherwise stated, where the offence occurred(See also p 9 for ORSTARTS OF PLAY) (2) On the 5m. or 10 m. line, opposite the breach, for

offside breaches at a scrum (5m) or a play - the -ball (10m)

OR(3) 10 metres in-field if the offence occurred outside the

field of play or in the in-goal areaOR

(See also p.35 – (4) In the case of interference to a kicker or a“Possible 3-point member of the kicker’s team:Field (Drop) Goal) (a) where the ball first lands in the field of play

(b) where the ball is first caught in the field of play(c) 10 metres in-field opposite where the ball first

crossed the touch or goal lines.OR

(5) At the mark should any forward infringe or the half-back “feed” incorrectly; or, in line with the last rowof forwards when a halfback doesn’t retire, or,onthe five metre line should any other back infringe.

OR(6) Level with the acting halfback at the play - the - ball

should a player commit a “down town” breach - i.e.moving in front of the acting halfback before the ball,kicked from behind, has passed over the player’s head.

Note: • Advantage Law is applied whenever possible . .except at Starts of Play.

• Only the Referee can decide on whether anAdvantage occurs.

HOW TAKEN? • By Place, Punt, Drop or “Tap” kick.• The ball must be kicked in line with the given “mark”• KICKING TEAM

- The kicker may stand in front of the ball.- All other players on kicker’s team must be behind

the ballIF NOT: A SCRUM 20 metres from touch level withthe “mark”

• NON-KICKING TEAM-All players must be 10 metres from “mark” or, if within10 metres of the goal line, they go back to stand onthe goal line...and must not distract the kickerIF NOT: A FURTHER PENALTY . awarded on the 10metre line in line with the breach or, if within 10 metresof the goal line, as close to the goal line as possible.

HOW TAKEN? • MISCONDUCT(Cont) For obscene (or offensive) language or not surren-

dering the ball, the mark shall be moved forward 10metres (or as close to the goal line as possible) –ONCE ONLY.

PENALTY KICK • Taken by either Place or Drop kick.AT GOAL • The ball can be taken back to a new mark . . .

defenders may move to within 10 metres of thisnew mark.

DIFFERENTIAL • This results from a scrum breach andPENALTY includes backs being in an offside position.

• NOT FOR: Foul play, the use of obscene or offensive language or when the lock is not “packedin” when a scrum is formed.

• At “Differentials” the same rules apply as at normalpenalty kick, EXCEPT - while a kick at goal “can”be taken, no points can be scored.

IF, AFTER ANY • the ball “goes dead” in an opponent’sPENALTY KICK in-goal, then 20 metre drop-out results.

• the ball goes directly into touch, then a “free kick”results - 10 metres in-field opposite where ball wentinto touch.

34

FREE KICKS• Kicker may use Place, Drop, Punt or “Tap” kick.• Kick must be taken from the “mark”.• Ball may be kicked in any direction.• Only the kicker may stand in front of the ball.• All other players of kicker’s team must be behind ball.• Any breach by the KICKER’S team - SCRUM 20 metres

from touch level with the mark the “mark”.• All non-kicking team’s players must retire 10 metres or to the

goal line. If not - a PENALTY back on the 10 metre line, opposite where the offence occurred.

• Points cannot be scored - i.e. a place, or drop kick at goalfrom a free kick may be taken but no points would be given.

35

OF INTEREST

POSSIBLE If a player “fouls” an opponent as he is

8-POINT TRY touching down for a try THEN

• a “penalty kick at goal” is awarded on the 10 metre line

in front of the goal posts AFTER the conversion is

attempted

AND

• play is restarted at the halfway mark immediately

after this kick is taken.

POSSIBLE • If a player is fouled while attempting a

3-POINT FIELD Field (Drop) Goal THEN

(DROP) GOAL (a) if drop goal is successful - a “PENALTY KICK AT

GOAL” is awarded on 10 metre line in front of

goal posts . . .

OR

(b) if drop goal misses and no Advantage occurs a

PENALTY is awarded on 10 metre line, in front of

goal posts.

PENALTY TRY • This is awarded by the REFEREE at the centre of the

goal line if a defender’s unfair play, in the opinion of the

REFEREE, prevented the scoring of a try.

36

PENALTY KICK & FREE KICK

Q.1. When a penalty kick is taken - (a) The ball is kicked 3 metres forward and it lands in the field

of play before going into touch.(b) The ball is kicked into touch on the full.(c) The ball is kicked 3 metres forward and is blown

backwards. It enters touch, 10 metres towards the kicker’sgoal line.

(d) A kick at goal is attempted. The ball strikes the upright orcrossbar and is deflected into touch.

The answer to (a), (b), (c) & (d) IS the same! What is it?

Q.2. When a penalty kick is taken - (a) The ball is not kicked from the mark or a point in line with

the mark.(b) A player of the kicker’s team (other than the kicker) is in front

of the ball.(c) The ball is touched by the foot but does not leave the

kicker’s hands.The ruling IS the same! What is it?

Q.3. A penalty kick is awarded. The team takes the ball back fromthe mark to a distance of 5 metres. A player tap kicks the ball,moves off in possession and is tackled by opposing playerswho had moved up to a position 5 metres from the mark wherethe penalty was actually awarded. What’s the ruling?

LAWS QUIZ No.6

37

Q.4. A team is awarded a penalty. A player takes a quick place/tapkick, moves off and is tackled by an opponent who had notretired 10 metres

What would the referee “rule”?

Q. 5. After finding touch from a penalty kick, a free kick is taken.However,(a) the kicking side does not kick the ball from the mark.(b) a player, other than the kicker, is in front of the mark when

the kick is taken.(c) the ball is touched by the foot but does not leave the

kicker’s hands.

The answer to (a), (b) & (c) IS the same. What is it?

Q.6. When the free kick is taken, the ball is kicked forward intotouch and goes “out” on the full.

What would you “rule”?

Q. 7. When a free kick is taken, an “opposition player” in centre fieldhas not retired 10 metres from the line of the mark. When theball is passed along the line, the “opposition player” moves inand tackles the player in possession. What ruling do you thinkthe referee would make?

Q.8. A penalty kick (or a free kick) is taken by using a high “up andunder” punt kick ... a “bomb”. The ball is caught on the full byan opponent in his own in-goal where he is immediately tackled. How would the referee “rule”?

For Answers...see p.60

38

OFFSIDE PLAY1. (a) A player cannot be offside in his own in-goal.

(b) A player may be offside in his opponents’ in-goal.(c) A player is in an offside position when he is in front of one

of his own team who last touched, held or kicked the ball.

2. (a) A player in an offside position shall not take any part in thegame until he is placed onside.

(b) An offside player must retire ten metres from an opponentwaiting to catch the ball or an opponent who has the ball.

3. An offside player may be placed onside, during general play,in the following ways.(a) An opponent with the ball moves ten metres or more in any

direction.(b) An opponent does not take the ball cleanly.(c) An opponent passes or kicks the ball.(d) If one of his own side, who kicks or knocks the ball forward,

runs past him or the ball.(e) If one of his own team, while in possession of the ball, runs

past him.(f) If he (the offside player) retires behind the point where the

ball was last touched by one of his own side.

4. An accidental offside occurs when a ball is propelled or kickedforward by a player and accidentally strikes a member of histeam who is in an offside position. If there is no advantage tobe gained by the non-offending side then a scrum is formedwhere the player is struck; or, after the 5th tackle, a change ofpossession.

5. An offside player who deliberately remains within ten metres ofan opponent catching the ball, should be penalised ... unlessADVANTAGE LAW applies.

39

OFFSIDE

Try “your hand” at each of these! How would YOU “rule”?

Q.1. The ball is kicked downfield in general play. It strikes an opposition player accidentally. A teammate, of the player whokicked the ball, was 5 metres in front of the kicker and movesin to tackle an opponent who gains possession of the ball.

Q.2. The team’s fullback kicks the ball downfield and all his team-mates - who were in front of him, follow up the kick. The ballis fielded by an opponent who runs 7 metres and is tackled.

Q.3. The ball is kicked 40 metres downfield. A player, behind thekicker, follows on to be joined by a colleague standing 12metres from the opposing player who catches the ball cleanly.Both players move in to tackle the player in possession.

Q.4. The ball is kicked downfield. The kicker follows the kick andpasses all his own players including one 12 metres from theopposing player who gained possession. The kicker stops andthe player from 12 metres away moves in to effect a tackle.

continued next page

LAWS QUIZ No.7

40

Q.5. At a play-the-ball, a defending outside centre is 3 metres backfrom the marker. When the ball is passed along the line the out-side centre moves in and tackles an opposing player.

Q.6. The acting halfback passes the ball to the fullback who knocksthe ball on. The acting halfback falls on the ball.

Q. 7. The ball is passed back to the five-eighth by the halfback. Thefive-eighth knocks the ball on. The five-eighth’s momentum,however, carries the five-eighth forward and past the halfbackwho has, in the meantime, fallen on the ball.

For Answers...see p.61

41

MISCONDUCT• When instances of misconduct occur, unless there is an

advantage to the non-offending side, a penalty is awardedagainst the offender. Misconduct occurs when a player: (a) deliberately trips, kicks or strikes another player.(b) either effecting or attempting to effect a tackle, makes contact

with the head or neck of an opponent intentionally, recklessly or carelessly.

(c) knees an opponent.(d) uses any dangerous throw when effecting a tackle. (e) deliberately breaks the Laws of the Game.(f) uses offensive or obscene language (i.e. swearing). (g) disputes any decision of the referee or touch judge. (h) re-enters the field of play without the permission of the referee

or touch judge after he had temporarily retired from the game.(i) acts against the true spirit of the game (e.g. holding an

opponent; knocking the ball out of an opponent’s hands as heattempts to play it).

(j) deliberately obstructs an opponent not in possession of theball (e.g. tackles him without the ball, or after he has kicked orpassed it).

Note: The first four examples, (a) to (d), are considered to be foulplay and may warrant instant dismissal. They are not Sin Binoffences.

Items of Interest1. At a tackle it is legal to bring an opponent to the ground over an

outstretched leg providing the tackler is holding the ball - carrierwith BOTH arms before there is any contact with the leg.

2. A player who repeatedly breaks the Laws can be sent to the SinBin or dismissed for the remainder of the game.

3. A player may politely ask the reason for a penalty.

42

4. A player who commences a tackle as an opponent passes orkicks should not be penalised – play continues.

5. An accidental obstruction should not be penalised. If the referee feels play is affected by an accidental obstruction, thena scrum should be put down where play was affected.

6. A player with the ball cannot be guilty of obstruction.7. It is illegal to obstruct an opponent who is trying to obtain the

ball . . . but a player may shoulder an opponent as they are running together to gain possession of, or to force (ground), theball.

8. A player may legally use the ruck, scrum or goalposts to avoida tackle. Using a teammate in any other way to avoid a tackle –often referred to as “shepherding”, is illegal.

43

DUTIES OF REFEREE AND TOUCH JUDGE

• One Referee and two Touch Judges (who are also qualifiedReferees) are appointed to control a game of Rugby League.The Referee may be called upon to keep the score and take thetime.

• The Referee is responsible for enforcing the rules. The TouchJudges are responsible for:(i) decisions relating to touch and touch in-goal play(ii) assisting the Referee in judging kicks at goal;(iii) acting as a marker for the team that has to retire ten metres

when a penalty kick or free kick is being taken(iv) reporting foul play or misconduct that has not been seen by

the Referee.• The players are under the control of the Referee from the time

they enter the playing area until they leave it.

44

• The Referee blows the whistle (a) to start and stop play; and, (b)on the sixth (6th) tackle to indicate a changeover of possession.

• If the whistle is blown accidentally play must stop. Play is thenre-started with a scrum.

CHANGING A DECISIONThe only time a Referee is permitted to change a decision is whena Touch Judge reports foul play that occurred without theReferee’s knowledge and before the Referee made his decision.Before awarding a try, the Referee must always look to bothTouch Judges to ensure that no prior incident has occurred thatcould affect his decision.

CONSULTING THE TOUCH JUDGESIt is permissible for the Referee to consult either or both TouchJudges before making a decision if he so desires.

DUTIES OF TOUCH JUDGESEach Touch Judge carries a flag which is used to signal to theReferee. (The specific signals are treated in the next section.)A Touch Judge -

(i) indicates when and where the ball goes into touch by raising his flag and standing opposite the point where the ballwent into touch.

(ii) indicates “ball back” if no ground should be gained by theteam responsible for the ball going directly into touch.

(iii) indicates touch in-goal.(iv) indicates a goal has been scored.Touch Judges remain in touch except(i) when judging kicks at goal; and(ii) when reporting a player’s misconduct that was not noticed by

the Referee.

45

DID YOU KNOW• If a Referee considers that his control of the game has been

interfered with, through(i) adverse weather

(ii) interference by spectators(iii) misbehaviour by players, or(iv) some other extreme reasonhe may stop the game temporarily or even end it before full-time?

• That the Referee is the sole judge of the dead ball line?• If a Referee is unable to continue, he can appoint a substitute?• A dismissed player is not allowed to remain in the playing area?• A Referee cannot order a Captain to change a player’s position

in his team? However, the Referee should advise the Captainthat a final caution has been given to a player who has persistently breached the laws so that the Captain may changethe player’s position if he wishes.

• A Touch Judge simply reports misconduct to the Referee - hedoes not make a decision on it?

• The ball is not in touch if it crosses the touch line in flight andthen swerves back and lands and stays in the playing field?

46

REFEREES’ AND TOUCH JUDGES’SIGNALS

The signals used by Referees and Touch Judges are their onlymeans of communication with the onlooker during a game andthey should be made clearly so that both players and onlookerscan easily understand them. There is a degree of similarity withsome signals. However, the circumstances under which they aregiven should make the meaning immediately obvious.When a Referee is required to give a decision he indicates thenature of the decision by making the appropriate signal. Where nosignal exists the miming of the action causing the decision to bemade should be attempted. The Referee should point to theoffender who caused the stoppage and indicate how the gameshould be restarted.The following descriptions are set out in the form of directions toreferees and touch judges as to the appropriate signal to be usedat any time.BALL BACK:Wave flag above head emphasising a backward movement.BALL OVER DEAD BALL LINE:Wave flag with an up and down movement below the waist.BALL TOUCHED IN FLIGHT:Raise one hand above the head and tap the tips of the fingers withthe fingers of the other hand.“BLOOD BIN”:The referee “draws” the hand across the chest from side to side.COLLAPSING THE SCRUM:Make a lifting motion with the hand.COUNT OF TACKLES IS CANCELLED AND STARTS AGAIN:Wave clenched fist from side to side above head.DIFFERENTIAL PENALTY:Extend the arm as for an ordinary penalty then move the arm tothe upright position. Perform this action twice with the whole movement being continuous and decisive.

47

DISPUTING DECISIONS:Place one hand on the mouth.DRAGGING TACKLED PLAYER AFTER TACKLE IS EFFECTED:Mime the action of dragging.DROP-OUT:Point to the place from which the drop kick is to be taken.EIGHT POINT TRY:This term is used to indicate that a penalty kick at goal has beenawarded for foul play against a try-scorer. Instruct a Touch Judgeto take up position in front of the posts ten metres from the goalline before he moves behind the goal posts to judge on the conversion attempt.FORWARD PASS:Make a forward movement with the straight arm indicating the lineof flight of the ball.GOAL:Raise hand above head.HALFBACK “DUMMIES” - I.E. BAULKS AT SCRUM FEED:Mime the action of the halfback but emphasise the backwardmotion of the hands.HALFBACK FAILS TO RETIRE:Make a movement with the hand indicating the direction the half-back should have taken.HALFBACK FEEDS “OWN SIDE’S FEET”:With hands and arms mime the action of the halfback putting theball into the scrum, but exaggerate the angle at which it wasthrown.HALFBACK THROWS THE BALL UPWARDS INTO THE SCRUM:Mime the action of the halfback exaggerating the upward movement of the hands.HANDLING IN THE SCRUM:Make a backward scooping action with the hand HOOKER PACKS A LOOSE ARM:Raise one arm sideways with elbow bent so that the hand hangsdownwards.

48

HOOKER STRIKES PREMATURELY:Raise a foot from the ground in front of the body with the legstraight.

KICKER FAILS TO BRING FOOT INTO CONTACT WITH THEBALL:Tap the foot with one hand.

KNOCK-ON:With hands in front of the body, below the waist, slightly apart,palms facing forward and fingers pointing towards the ground,make two or three forward movements of the hands.

OBSTRUCTION:Mime the offending player’s action.

OFFSIDE (INDICATION PLAYER SHOULD HAVE BEENFURTHER BACK):With a backward movement of the hand indicate players are notback 5m or 1Om. Wave hand with backward movement and pointto the 10m line (play-the-ball), or 5m line (scrum).

PENALTY KICK:Face the non-offending team and extend an arm forward with thehand slightly higher than shoulder level and the palm of the handat right angles to the ground.

PENALTY TRY:Pointing to the spot mid-way between the posts, the refereetemporarily takes up a position on this spot as a guide to the kicker.

PLAY ON:Wave the hands chest high (palms facing away from the chest)across and in front of the body.

MARKER RETAINS HIS HOLD ON PLAYER PLAYING THEBALL:Make a decisive backward movement with one hand. This signalapplies to any interference by the player marking when the ball is actually being played other than kicking prematurely or danger-ously (paragraph below).

49

PLAYER MARKING THE TACKLED PLAYER, AT THEPLAY - THE - BALL, KICKS:Make a kicking movement with the foot.PROP STRIKES FOR THE BALL:Raise a foot from the ground by extending the leg sidewaysfrom the body.

SCRUM: With bent arms, palms of hands facing each other at shoulderlevel, fingers together and slightly bent, bring the tops of the fin-gers together with a slight downward movement.

SIN BIN - TEMPORARY SUSPENSION OF A PLAYER:Raise both arms with fingers outstretched to indicate a ten minute suspension.

STEALING THE BALL FROM THE TACKLED PLAYER:Mime the action of snatching the ball from the opponent.

STIFF ARM TACKLE:Raise an arm in front of the body with fist clenched and, asthe arm is moved forward, tap the forearm with the other hand.

SUCCESSFUL KICK AT GOAL:Raise flag above head.

TACKLED PLAYER DELAYS REGAINING HIS FEET:Flick the hand in an upward direction.

TACKLED PLAYER DOES NOT LIFT THE BALL CLEAR:Make a lifting movement with the hand.

TACKLED PLAYER DOES NOT FACE OPPONENTS’GOAL LINE:Stand at the angle the offending player adopted and then turn toface the opponents’ goal line.

TACKLED PLAYER “DUMMIES” WHEN DROPPING THE BALL:Mime the action of the offending player exaggerating the upward withdrawing movement of the hands.

50

TACKLED PLAYER FAILS TO DROP THE BALLCORRECTLY:If the ball has been dropped between the player’s legs, pointbackwards with one arm between the legs. If the ball has beendropped to the side, point with one hand to the side.TACKLED PLAYER OBSTRUCTS OR BUTTS WITH HISHEAD AFTER PLAYING THE BALL:Mime his action.TACKLED PLAYER PASSES WHEN HE SHOULD HAVEPLAYED THE BALL:Mime the action of playing the ball.TACKLER DELAYS RELEASING TACKLED PLAYER:Make a downward movement with the hands in front of thebody below the waist.TEAM IS TACKLED FIVE SUCCESSIVE TIMES:Raise arm vertically above head with fingers and thumboutstretched.TEAM IS TACKLED SIX SUCCESSIVE TIMES:Blow the whistle, raise the arm vertically above the head, thenpoint to the side which is to gain possession and mime theaction of playing the ball.TIME-ON; ENDING EXTRA TIME FOR STOPPAGE:Wave one arm over head.TIME-OFF; EXTRA-TIME:Raise both arms vertically above head.TOUCH:Flag raised above head at point of entry.TOUCH IN-GOAL (N.S.W.R.F.L. version):Wave flag diagonally across and below the waist.TRIPPING:Extend one foot forward as if to trip.TRY:Look to the Touch Judges, blow the whistle and then pointto where try is awarded. Instruct the Touch Judge to standon this point temporarily as a guide to the player who is totake the goal kick.

51

TRY DISALLOWED:Wave hands, palms facing downwards across and in front of thebody below the waist.

UNSUCCESSFUL KICK AT GOAL:Wave flag across, and in front of, the body below the waist.If the ball goes over the dead ball line, wave the flag up and downbelow waist height.

VOLUNTARY TACKLE:Make a lifting movement with hand . . . indicating that theplayer should have risen to play on.

“ZERO” TACKLE: (Refer- p.23)Wave clenched fist from side to side above head - immediatelyafter the play-the-ball following that tackle.

Code of Conduct - for Spectators

52

GLOSSARY OF TERMSThe glossary defines the meanings of terms which are usedthroughout the Laws of the Game and have common usageamongst those associated with the code.

ACCIDENTAL STRIKE:The ball comes into contact with a player who has made noattempt to play at the ball (eg. Rebound, Ricochet).

ADVANTAGE:Means that the referee allows play to continue if it is to the advantage of the non-offending side. That side must have theopportunity to gain and exploit that advantage.

ATTACKING TEAM:Identifies the team which has the territorial advantage irrespectiveof which team has possession.

BACK:Refers to a player not taking part in the scrum.

BEHIND:Indicates that a player must have both feet behind the position orline in question.

BLIND SIDE:Refers to the side of the scrum or play-the-ball nearer to a touch line.

CHARGING DOWN:Is the act of blocking the path of the ball with hands, arms or bodyas it rises from an opponent’s kick.

CONVERSION:Kicking a goal following the scoring of a try – by place kick only.

DEAD BALL:The ball is deemed to be out of play.

DEAD IN-GOAL:The ball (or a player in possession of the ball) touches the cornerpost or crosses the touch in-goal line or dead ball line.

53

DEFENDING TEAM:The team which is defending its own half of the playing field.

DIFFERENTIAL PENALTY:Means a penalty kick awarded from a scrum infringement (otherthan foul play or use of obscene or offensive language). Anattempt at goal to score points cannot be taken.

DROP GOAL:Commonly referred to as a Field Goal, it means the drop kickingof a ball over the opponents’ crossbar from general play.

DROP-OUT:

Means drop kicking the ball from the centre of the goal line (or the20 metre line) when bringing the ball back into play.

DUMMY:Is pretending to pass or kick the ball and then deceiving youropponents by not doing so.

DUMMY HALF:Is a commonly used name for the acting halfback who takes up aposition immediately and directly behind a marker or man playingthe ball.

FEEDING THE SCRUM:A “Put in” – it is the rolling of the ball into the scrum by the halfback

FIELD OF PLAY:Is the area bounded by (but not including) the touch lines and goal lines.

FORWARD:Has two meanings. One meaning refers to a player who takes partin a scrum; the other means “in a direction towards theopponent’s dead ball line”

FORWARD PASS:Is to pass the ball towards the opponents’ dead ball line.

FREE KICK:Is the kick taken after the ball has been kicked directly into touchfrom a penalty kick. A kick of any type is taken 10m from the pointof entry into touch and may be kicked in any direction.

54

GENERAL PLAY:Describes the period of time when play is in progress other than at astart (or restart) of play, a scrum, a play-the-ball, penalty or a free kick.GOAL:The ball passes over the opponents’ crossbar towards the deadball line without being touched by any other player, except from afield goal where a touched ball is still counted.From a penalty kick the ball may be place, or drop, kicked.From a try the ball must be place kicked.GROUNDING THE BALL:The scoring of a try. It can be achieved as follows.(a) Placing the ball on the ground with the hand or hands.(b) Exerting downward pressure on the ball with the hand or arm,

or dropping on the ball and covering it with the front part of thebody above the waist and below the neck, the ball itself beingon the ground.

HANDOVER/CHANGE OF POSSESSION:Means the ball is surrendered to the opposition following the sixthtackle . . . or when, after five tackles, the player in possessionknocks-on, passes forward or kicks directly into touch on the full.HEEL:A player propels the ball behind him with the sole or heel of his foot.HOOK:Is the act of the hooker striking with his foot for the ball in the scrum.ILLEGAL INTERFERENCE:Interference with or impeding a player who is not in possession ofthe ball.IN POSSESSION:Holding or carrying the ball.KICK:Imparting motion to the ball with any part of the leg from the kneeto the toe inclusive.KNOCK-ON:Knocking the ball towards the opponents’ dead ball line with thehand or arm.LOOSE ARM:Refers to the hooker packing into a scrum with one arm not overthe shoulders of his prop forward.

55

LOOSE HEAD:Refers to the front row forwards in the scrum – each having hishead nearer to the side from which the scrum is being fed.MARK:The point where a scrum is set or a penalty kick or free kick isawarded.MUTUAL INFRINGEMENT:Occurs when play is irregularly affected because the ball, or player with the ball, accidentally strikes the referee, touch judge orspectator, or, play is stopped because of a melee and the aggres-sor is not identified.NON-OFFENDING TEAM:This indicates the team NOT RESPONSIBLE for a stoppage inplay which eventuates in either a scrum or handover taking place– e.g. forward pass; knock-on; kick into touch.OBSTRUCTION:Another term for illegal interference.OFFSIDE:Indicates that a player comes into play when in front of his ownplayer who last touched, kicked or carried the ball.OPEN SIDE:Refers to the side of the scrum or play-the-ball furthest from thetouch line.OUT OF PLAY:This indicates a player who has not retired the required number ofmetres at the play-the-ball or taken up a correct position behindthe last line of forwards at a scrum. A player who is “out of play”cannot be placed “onside” by the normal conditions for “offsideplay”.PACK:Indicates the forming of a scrum as well as referring to the forwards of any team.PASS:Passing the ball from one player to another.PENALISE:The act of the referee awarding a penalty kick against an offending player.

56

PENALTY KICK:Means kicking the ball from the mark or any point on or behind themark on a line parallel to the touch line.PLACE KICK:To kick the ball after having placed it on the ground for that purpose.PLAYING AREA:The fence or natural boundary around the playing field.PLAYING FIELD:The area bounded by (but not including) the touch lines, touch in-goal lines and dead ball lines.PLAY-THE-BALL:Is the act of bringing the ball into play following a tackle.PUNT:Is to drop the ball from the hand or hands and kick it before ittouches the ground.REBOUND/RICHOCET:See “Accidental Strike”.RUCK:Is the popular description of the play-the-ball movement ... it refersto the area between the player (of the ball) and the marker.STRIKE:Means striking with the foot in a scrum.TAP KICK:Placing the ball on the ground and kicking in any direction.TOUCH DOWN:A defender forces the ball in his own in-goal.TRY:The ball is grounded in the opponent’s in-goal as defined in“grounding the ball” above.VOLUNTARY TACKLE:Occurs when a player’ in possession of the ball’ voluntarily stopsplay by remaining on, or falling to, the ground when not effectivelytackled and thereby making no attempt to continue play.“ZERO” TACKLEOccurs when a player gains possession from an opponent’sknock-on and a team member is subsequently tackled.

ANSWERS

STARTS OF PLAYQ.1. Penalty Kick against the kicking team at the centre of the

halfway line - the ball did not go the required 10 metres forward and land in the playing field.

Q.2. Goal Line drop-out.Q.3 Penalty Kick against the kicking team at the centre of the line

- the ball did not go the required 10 metres forward and landin the playing field.

Q.4 Penalty Kick against the kicking team 10m out from the centre of the goal line.

Q.5 *(a) & (b): Penalty Kick at the centre of the 20m line - to thekicking team.*(c) & (d): Penalty Kick - against the kicking team, at the centre of the 20m line.

* * * *TOUCH & TOUCH IN GOAL

Q.1. (a) & (b): Scrum where the player kicked the ball - loose headand feed to the non-kicking team.

(c): Free kick -10 metres in from where the ball wascaught.

(d): Scrum at the point where the ball was kicked provided it is no less than 20 metres from the touchline & 10 metres from goal line - loose head andfeed to the non-kicking team.

(e): Play on!(f): 20m optional kick.

NOTE: If (a), (b) and (d) were after the 5th tackle,a change of possession would occur.

QUIZ No.1

QUIZ No.2

57

58

Q.2. Change of possession 10 metres in from touch oppositewhere the acting halfback was tackled into touch.

Q.3. Penalty kick against the tackling team where the tackle wasmade.

Q.4. Goal line drop-out by the kicker’s team.

* * * *

KNOCK-ON & FORWARD PASS

Q.1. (a): Scrum 20 metres in from where the ball entered touch.Loose head and feed to the non-kicking team.

(b): Try. The knock-on was nullified.(c): Scrum where the first player knocked the ball forward.

Loose head and feed to the opposition.(d): Try.(e): Scrum where the ball was first knocked-on. Loose head

and feed to the non-offending team.(f): 20 metre optional kick. The ball was made “dead” in the

opponent’s in-goal.(g): Scrum - where the knock-on occurred 10 metres out

from the goal line. Loose head and feed to the non-offending team.

(h): Scrum for an accidental forward pass. Loose head andfeed to the opposition.

(i): Penalty to the opposition at the point where the playerpassed the ball.

(j): Penalty kick to the opposition at the point where the ballwas thrown forward.

* * * *

QUIZ No.3

59

TACKLE & PLAY-THE-BALL

Q. 1. Penalty kick against the tackler - back on the 10 metre lineand in line with the tackle.

Q.2. Penalty kick against the marker at the centre of the ruck.Q.3. Change of possession in all cases! Awarded - (a) Where the

tackled was made. (b) Where the knock-on occurred. (c) Atthe point where the kick took place. (d) At the point where thepass was made.

Q.4. (a) & (b): Scrum where the ball entered touch - 20 metres in;with the LOOSE head and feed to the non-kickingteam.

(c): Scrum 20 metres in from where the ball entered touch.Loose head and the feed to the non-kicking team.

Q.5. Penalty kick at the centre of the ruck for playing the ball forward.

Q.6. Penalty kick against the tackler back on the 10 metre lineand in line with the tackle.

* * * *

SCRUMS

Q. 1. Differential Penalty Kick against the feeding halfback –

back in line with both the lock and where the tackle was

made.

Q.2. Differential Penalty Kick against the outside centre – 5metres back from the lock forward and in line with where thetackle was made.

QUIZ No.4

QUIZ No.5

Q.3. (a), (b), (c): Differential Penalty Kick against the offendingteam on the mark of the scrum.

Q.4. Penalty Kick - a full penalty! On the mark of the scrum andagainst the team having 8 backs.

Q.5. The scrum is re-set.Q.6. Penalty Kick - against the front row forward, where the

tackle was made.

* * * *

PENALTY KICK & FREE KICK

1. (a),(b),(c)&(d): Free kick – 10 metres in from touch andopposite where the ball entered touch.

Q.2. (a), (b), & (c): Scrum on the mark where the penalty kickwas awarded or 20 metres from touch, if closer. Loose head and feed given to the non-offending team.

Q.3. Award a further penalty kick on the 10 metre line in line withthe tackle. The opposition must remain 10 metres from themark of the penalty until the ball is kicked.

Q.4. Award a further penalty kick on the 10 metre line in line withthe tackle.

Q.5. (a), (b) & (c): Scrum 20m in from touch level with the mark –the non-offending team having the loose head and feed.

Q.6. Scrum 20m in from touch level with the free kick mark with the non-offending team having the loose head and feed.

Q.7 A penalty kick on the 10m line in line with the tackle.Q.8 A goal line drop-out.

* * * *

60

QUIZ No.6

61

OFFSIDE

Q.1. Penalty kick against the tackler - where the tackle wasmade.

Q.2. Penalty kick against the tackler - where the tackle wasmade. The ball-carrier must be allowed to run at least 10metres.

Q.3. Penalty kick where the tackle was made and against theplayer who was 12 metres from the opposing player andmoved in to assist in the tackle.

Q.4. Play on. The tackler was placed on-side.Q.5. Penalty kick against the outside centre - back on the 10

metre line (from the play-the-ball) and in line with where thetackle was made.

Q.6. Penalty kick against the acting halfback - where possessionwas regained.

Q.7. Scrum for a knock-on by the five-eighth where the knock-onoccurred. Loose head and feed to the non-offending team

QUIZ No.7

62

This book is dedicated to Frank Johnson OAM, RegDick, Darrel Chapman, MikeCullen, Norm Smith andGeorge Thompson.

Good friends and advisors, theywere passionate about RugbyLeague and their influence hasbeen greatly missed by all.

R.I.P.

The author wishes to acknowledge & show appreciation toBruce Chapman, Neville Norris, Richard Johnston andBarry Beveridge for their assistance with the final perusalof the text before publication.Peter D.Corcoran OAM