Tackle/ruck

What we believe is going well.

·         There is a real effort in the Tackler releasing the tackled player, this is new this year so thanks for your support on that.

·         Tackle entry, players are making an effort to come through the gate which is allowing a better contest at the breakdown.

What we believe needs more attention.

·         We are still having issues with players staying on their feet, these are the guys that go off their feet to stop a contest.

·         A few teams are using the squeeze ball technique, we need the tackled player also to open up.

·         Players that use just their shoulders to hit rucks or mauls should expect high sanctions.

 

Line-out

What we believe is going well.

·         There is a good gap this year, this produces an even contest.

·         We are seeing very little obstruction.

What we believe needs more attention.

·         There is an issue in forming up line-outs  with some teams, we need teams to form up without delay so we get two straight lines or the free kick sanction will be enforced.

·         We need to ensure the ball travels 5m before it is played.

 

Scrums

What we believe is going well.

·         A slower engagement has meant less resets and better safety.

·         There is better compliance by front row forwards .

What we believe needs more attention.

·         Loose forwards need to completely bind onto the scrum and not get a flyer.

·         Defensive half backs are touching the scrum and getting offside, the defensive half back is offside if he steps in front of the ball while it is in the scrum.

 

Offsides

What we believe is going well.

·         Down town kicks, there is a lot more space for teams to counter-attack.  This is because teams are complying with the 10m law.

What we believe needs more attention.

·         Guard dogs / pillars these are coming back in, if you are coaching this then stop.  We as referees will again get more technical in this area if this pattern continues.