To play the ball.....or not. : Sun May 26, 2019 7:56 am  

Having watched the magic weekend games so far I was amazed by how the ball was being played. I cannot recall a
single occasion when the ball was played according to the rule...ie the ball was rolled back without the foot touching it.
The saving grace I suppose for all the teams was that this situation has gone on with the referee choosing to turn a
blind eye.
In contrast watching the NRL mostly every ball is played according to the rule. I think recently the NRL tightened up
the rule and how refreshing it is to see.
I am wondering that with any future test matches between the two countries there will be a situation when GB will
be caught with their trousers down. Penalties with an Australian referee will be like confetti falling. That is of course is if
the two countries get their heads together and allow either the legal or illegal playing of the ball.

Re: To play the ball.....or not. : Sun May 26, 2019 11:22 am  

Agree,it’s increasingly becoming unofficially accepted by referees and adopted by many teams.
I wonder if it’s a trial that has been sanctioned by the “authorities” ? Because most teams are turning a blind eye to “play the ball rule” and I’ve not seen any penalties given out this season.
It probably speeds the game up so there could be a benefit, but nothings ever transparent with The Rugby League and the administration of the game.

Re: To play the ball.....or not. : Sun May 26, 2019 11:31 am  

Its that bad it reminds me of a dog cocking his leg!