What is wrong with the rules of rugby union at the moment? That is a genuine question. The experimental law variations went, the game was meant to improve. This has not been the case. In the Autumn internationals, there has been some excitement however the feeling to us people who watch the game is the same feeling people get with a slightly disappointing meal in a brilliant restaurant. All the bits are in place for a great meal but something is not right. The same is true of rugby football.
The major problems are the around the ruck area. The inconsistency is astounding, some referees call a penalty for handling in the ruck when the tackler jumps to his feet and stands over the ball, some referees don't. The other area that is causing problems is the interminable kicking game. The passages of play in the game where the ball is in the air are ridiculous and boring which is worrying when rugby is in a competitive environment trying to entertain the masses.
The kick in rugby is an incredibly important part of the game. If the kicking game is lost in rugby union the game becomes like rugby league or American football. In those two games the kick is purely defensive or last option in attack. In rugby union the kick has had great attacking potential. The grubber is a way of keeping the defence on the back foot. The "garryowen" is a test of bravery for the fullback. This means the kick has to be kept and used properly, at the moment it is causing the game to be sterile and some what boring. What we need is a change in trend. The first nation that takes the ball and runs the kicks back and scores will send the kicking game back into the stands.
I also think clock/time management in union is shocking, the lazy way in which referees call time off at time is staggering. Especially as its a game which doesnt include extra or overtime. So many other sports respect the clock so much more, NFL - a good example even though it is a different game.
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