Refs

A quick thank you to Chris Assmus (BC Rugby Officials Development Manager) for his documentation, the links provided are a great help in ensuring that coaches and players better understand the game. Chris, is a current Major League Rugby match official. He has refereed test rugby, was a TMO for the Rugby World Cup and has Sevens experience having been on the Series circuit in 2017-18.

Breakdown

  • Tackler not in the wayof ball or cleanout (open up east-west)
  • Jackler in a position to LIFT the ball (arriving square to goal-line)
  • Cleaners in a position to move jackler or protect ball with feet on ground (not falling on players)
  • Counter-ruck threat? Both sides arrive square to goal line & in position to move opponent

Space

  • The pillar defender's hands & feet are clearly behind the hindmost foot
  • Mid-field defensive line starting clearly onside (daylight)
  • Line speed timing of shooters (start onside + ball is lifted)
  • Players in front are not in the way & actively moving to get back in the game (behind the ball)

Set Piece

  • Scrum Setup is aligned to the left & maintains a strong, comfortable position throughout
  • Scrum Dominance means strong setup & go forward on both sides of scrum
  • Lineout Setup front lifter arrives early to maintain gap + all players in without delay
  • Maul Dominance means catcher in front, ball transfer, ball carrier bound + go-forward

Management

  • Head Contact: tackler bent at knees & hips (hit below the ball)
  • Under Pressure means high accuracy needed from the team going backwards
  • Officials to Move & Position out of the way of the ball, defender and support players
  • Communication: Primary signal (the WHAT) PK, FK or Scrum; Secondary signal (the WHY) Infringement