The Rugby Thread

[dtaai-maai]

I'm pretty sure it's at the ref's discretion, but the simple fact is that in most game situations and positions on the pitch it becomes clear quite quickly whether or not an advantage is likely. With a penalty, the game can move on quite a lot before an advantage over a kick at goal or to touch is clear.

[pharvey]

advantage won't last long,

Is there a set duration for this period, or simply the ref's decision? Something I've often thought about.

No, it's really to the ref's discretion and therein lies the problem....

Ultimately it should be over when a clear advantage has been taken/achieved.

[EDIT] Sorry - crossover with DM.

[PeteC]

I'm pretty sure it's at the ref's discretion, but the simple fact is that in most game situations and positions on the pitch it becomes clear quite quickly whether or not an advantage is likely. With a penalty, the game can move on quite a lot before an advantage over a kick at goal or to touch is clear.

The bold bit.....a scrum is also an option, right?

[dtaai-maai]

Yes, usually when near the try line. The attacking team will be hoping to get someone yellow carded.

[pharvey]

I'm pretty sure it's at the ref's discretion, but the simple fact is that in most game situations and positions on the pitch it becomes clear quite quickly whether or not an advantage is likely. With a penalty, the game can move on quite a lot before an advantage over a kick at goal or to touch is clear.

The bold bit.....a scrum is also an option, right?

Yes, if a penalty is given, the team awarded the penalty can opt for a scrum instead. This would only really happen when close to the opposing teams line AND if the attacking team's scrummage was dominant.

Oops, done it again...

[PeteC]

I'll have to think about the field position a bit. I swear I've seen the All Blacks and some Super Rugby teams choose a scrum on or around the 22. Never further back than that though.

[pharvey]

I'll have to think about the field position a bit. I swear I've seen the All Blacks and some Super Rugby teams choose a scrum on or around the 22. Never further back than that though.

Could well be if their scummage is dominant - they could be going for a yellow card for the opposition as DM mentioned.

[dtaai-maai]

I'll be interested to hear what pharvey has to say about that, but I'd say it very much depends on the state of play. If there's a penalty on the opposition's 22, you'd normally expect the attacking team to take the 3 points or kick for touch with a view to a rolling maul try. Opting for a scrum in that position? Off the top of my head, I can't see an advantage unless they're looking for another penalty to get a repeat offender into the sin bin.

EDIT:

[PeteC]

I'll keep my eyes open going forward and hopefully able to document. I also go through some old You Tubes at times and I'll see if it pops up on one of those. Dane Coles as captain of one of the sides he plays on sticks in my mind as choosing a scrum close to the 22 last season.

Edit: I guess it also eats the clock if it's already a lopsided score

[pharvey]

.
EDIT:

I'd also have to agree with DM that it would depend on the "state of play" - if it's a close game and you're virtually guaranteed the 3 points for a penalty goal, you're not going to be looking at a scrummage on the 22 regardless how strong you perceive your scrummage to be.

[pharvey]

Have just been watching the Gloucester vs Sale match (Gallagher Premiership) played last night. Superb game of rugby considering the conditions - exciting for the "neutral" also. Well worth the watch if you're able to access through True or YouTube etc.

I'll keep my eye out for possible streams.

Looking forward to the Bristol vs Bath clash tomorrow.

[PeteC]

Yes, it was on channel 669 here a few hours ago. I turned it on at 75 minutes so didn't see much. I'll hopefully find a replay tomorrow as TRUE/Rugby Pass usually does.

In fact, that's where my above posts came from about the knock on and advantages. What I saw happened right around that 75 minute mark.

[PeteC]

You need to watch the last 10 minutes of the Exeter vs Harlequins from yesterday.

[pharvey]

You need to watch the last 10 minutes of the Exeter vs Harlequins from yesterday.

Highlights of yesterday's matches on in a couple of hours, so I'll certainly take a look

[dtaai-maai]

On where, pharvey?