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SPACE > > > Managing Offsides: Ensuring Adequate Space
Maintaining a fair amount of space for the attacking team to play is important, and this is achieved through proper management of offsides. As a referee, there are a number of key things to keep in mind to ensure that both attacking and defending teams are playing within the Laws:
Attack: Keep attacking players onside until the lineout or scrum is over, and make sure that no players are in front of the kicker and advancing until the ball has been kicked.
Defense: The responsibility is on the defensive player to convince the referee that they are onside, and referees should be vigilant about maintaining the appropriate amount of space around the breakdown. It's crucial for defenders on the pillars to push back and move behind the last feet during a ruck to avoid penalties.
In front of the kicker: No player is allowed to advance when in front of the kicker, and referees should be aware of kicks downfield from the 22-meter line, as well as managing players during kick-offs and box kicks.
Special attention should be given to players on the try line. If a player's hands are on the ground beyond the try line, they will be considered onside, even if the rest of their body is behind the try line. It's important to communicate this rule clearly to both teams to avoid any confusion or disputes during the game.
By enforcing these Laws, referees can help ensure that both teams have a fair and enjoyable game while maintaining the necessary space and managing offsides.
SPACE
Backfoot
It's crucial for defenders on the pillars to push back and move behind the last feet during a ruck to avoid penalties.
If defenders fail to do so, it can result in penalties that may be costly for their team.
As a referee, it's important to take responsibility and ensure that defenders are following this law.
Additionally, players must be aware of their positioning during dynamic rucks and move back accordingly
CLOSE TO THE GOAL LINE
DYNAMIC RUCKS – PILLARS
Blocking box kicks
If a player is in front of the kicker and offside, and they actively obstruct or block defenders, it's important to penalize them. This ensures that the game is played fairly and that the attacking team is not given an unfair advantage.
As a referee, it's crucial to keep an eye on players in front of the kicker to ensure that they are not obstructing defenders, and to penalize them when necessary
ATTACKING BACKS – SET PIECE
ADDED FOR CLARITY
PLAYING THE 9
It's important to keep in mind that players are only allowed to play the scrum half if they are bound in the ruck with one arm and/or supporting their body weight. They cannot lean on top of opponents to gain an advantage.