The rule changes are a large part of what is ruining the game. The six again has become an easy get out for some refs. Some of the ruck infringements they are given for are pathetic. I'm sure they would think twice if they had to give penalties for some of those offences. Teams that have decent defence are now prepared to give away six again on the first or second tackle, it probably won't cost them much. If we go back to penalties for those offences most teams would try to eradicate them. a penalty would lead to a 20 to 30 metre advance at least, plus six tackles. A far more attacking option in my opinion. Also having no scrums tightens up the field, defence spread out instead of 6 defenders tied up in a short space, giving the backs more room to put on attacking moves. Most coaches have cottoned on to these rules and altered their style of play accordingly.
Loyal and true, not a glory hunter.
Agree on all of that. Both rules have dumbed down the game further.
The six again was a good idea, but it's failed for all the reasons you highlight above.
Unfortunately, with each and every rule change, the coaches find a way to exploit them and perhaps highlight why they were never rules in the first place. I can't think of many rules bar the 40-20 and the corner flag remaining in play that have done anything to improve the game.
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If we could go back in time, we certainly wouldn't undo the first two. I wish I could go back to 1994 though and knock the ten metre rule on the head. It's led to where we are today, with power having taken the place of skill. For me, it was the root of all evil, although it would take many years to become apparent.
THIS YEAR LENDING SUPPORT TO:- St. Helens RLFC, Manchester City, Celtic, Alemannia Aachen, Steps 1 to 6 Non-League Football