Rugby from a land down under
Super rugby is back, with rule changes intended to re-engage fans, Mike Penistone looks back at the first round of games.
Much has been said and written about the condition of Australian rugby over the last few years. Poor performances by the Wallabies at home and overseas has heightened the concern.
With Rugby League and Aussie Rules soaking up the TV millions as well as company sponsorship, Rugby Union is fighting to get the “pub talk back.”
The on-field product has become boring, so discussions have taken place between the coaches and representatives of the players of the 5 competing states in Super rugby AU. The aim is to make the game more exciting for both the players and the spectators.
Below are some of the main law changes:
- When an attacking player carrying the ball is held up in the in-goal or knocks the ball on play restarts with a goal line drop out.
- When a kick enters the in-goal area and is forced by the defending team play restarts with a goal line drop out.
- A kick originating in the attacking 22m area cannot be marked by the defending team within their own 22m area. The kick can however be marked within the defending team’s in-goal area and play restarts with a 22m line drop-out.
- Red Card. A red carded player can be replaced after 20 minutes.
- Super time. (2 x 5 min periods of extra time) in the event of a drawn game after regulation time where the first points scored wins the match for the scoring team.
Plus, referees have been asked to speed up the scrum set and re-set!
There are 5 teams in Super Rugby AU and 10 rounds of competition, then a play off.
So, there was great expectation when the opening round was played on Friday.
Reds v Waratahs in Brisbane.
Western Force v Brumbies in Perth.
Rebels had the bye.
The Waratahs scored an early try through their captain Jake Gordon at Suncorp Stadium. Inside 3 minutes the Tah’s were ahead 7-0. They then went on to concede 41 points and lose 41-7. Did the law changes impact the game? The answer is emphatically NO!
The Reds simply played with urgency, enthusiasm, energy, and a respect for the basics of the game. Their support play was top quality. Ball carriers were looking to off-load the ball, because they knew a support player would be available. Their driving maul was superbly organised so the Tah’s were always retreating.