For the amateur game, the main thing we’re looking for is to clean up the play-the-ball. As soon as the tackle is complete, we want to see the tacklers peel off and to see a clean play-the-ball.

As soon as the tackle is complete we expect to see the tackler move on the referee’s call. What we don’t want to see is players repositioning themselves to try and slow the play-the-ball down. Players moving their hands to lock the ball carrier or put their hand on the ball should be warned or penalised. This is to reward good offensive play rather than letting poor defence slow down play.

We’re looking for a clean play-the-ball, so we want the ball carrier to get to his feet and make an attempt to play the ball with his foot. The ball carrier needs to make sure that he regains his feet before trying to play the ball. We’re looking to see that the ball carrier has got balance and control on his feet before placing the ball on the ground. Players that put the ball down prematurely and fall over it will be deemed to have knocked on. This also prevents the ball carrier from ‘milking’ a penalty by rushing to the play the ball.

The only other thing we’re looking for is that the tackler and ball carrier use common sense when the tackler gets trapped in the ruck. We want to see the ball carrier play the ball as close to the mark as possible and we want to see the tackler roll out of the way as quick as they can. If the ball carrier places the ball on the tackler he should be penalised, he should step back or to the side slightly to play it. Similarly, the tackler should get out of the way as quickly as possible. There will be occasions where the ball is lost and the referee has to make a judgement on whose most at fault - you won’t always agree but please accept he needs to make a call and respect the decision.

I hope this helps to clear up any questions people may have had, if not, please get in touch. We’re always happy to discuss the laws of the game.

Rob Jones