What the Ruck? A Beginners guide to Rugby Union
Basic Rules:
- 7 players a side (15 in normal matches)
- No forward passes
- No blocks
- Attacking team (offense) must be behind the ball carrier
- Defense must be in front of the ball
- Tries (Touchdowns) = 5 points, conversions = 2 points, penalty/dropkicks = 3 points
- Tackles must be below the neck, no mid-air hits
- Must release the ball after being tackled
- No “Downs”; play continues!
The Ruck: Fight over ball after carrier is tackled
The Maul: Carrier is wedged between own team and opposition.