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Important Penalties |
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For a summary of how to play the game - and the rules that govern it - click on the links below.
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Forward passes and knock-ons
A player cannot pass the ball forward. A team mate receiving a pass must be behind or parallel to the player who is passing the ball. A ball that caroms forward off a player's upper body is called a called a knock-on and is considered a forward pass. A carom forward from below the waist is considered a kick and is not illegal.
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Offside
One of rugby's most important rules is offside. A player is considered offside when he or she is in front of a team mate who has the ball or who has last played the ball. If the offside player's position is unavoidable, and he or she has not interfered with the play, that player can become onside again once a team mate carries, kicks or pursues the ball past him. In this case the player will not be penalized. If the player cannot avoid contact, the player is ruled "accidentally offside" and a scum is called. An offside call results in either a penalty kick or scrum where the offence took place.
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Blocking
Unlike North American football, a player cannot block or impede the progress of an opposing player.
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Advantage
The referee will not always stop play for a penalty. If the non-offending team is gaining an advantage in territory or ball possession, the referee will let play continue. If the non-offending team is unable to gain an advantage, the referee has the option of stopping play and awarding the penalty.
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High tackles
Tackling around the neck is illegal.
For the complete set of rugby laws, check the International Rugby Board (IRB) website by clicking here.
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