Better Rugby Rules

Source: Second rugby ref pushed to improve test spectacle – Daniel Gilhooly

Introducing a second referee to top level rugby is a possible solution to offside play that is strangling the All Blacks’ counter-attack, according to assistant coach Wayne Smith.

Smith said referees are ignoring the law which states players in front of the kicker must remain behind a perceived 10m line right across the field from the kick receiver until put onside. There used to be an imaginary 10m circle around the receiver but that had been changed by lawmakers to encourage more counter-attack.

“I think the ideal behind the law changes is to have a more flowing game and a counterattacking game. . . but I don’t think we have seen that yet because I don’t think that law has been applied very well,” Smith said.

This is true. But what are the Assistant Refs doing for a living !

Offside law is applied very strictly in league and soccer to ensure space for players to move. Rugby has 15 players on the field, the sports mentioned have 13 and 11. So offside play is very important, and must be stopped. I would try a 2nd ref, but only allow him to do off sides and foul play. Then the players know there is a ‘ZERO’ window to infringe.

Yes I think the game would be better for it, but another ref or the current refs doing there job better ! Hmmm !