The
Layman’s Guide to the Laws of the Game
Law
15.....The Tackle -
ball carrier brought to the ground.
A
tackle occurs when a ball carrier in a standing position is held and brought to
ground and/or the ball comes into contact with the ground. Being on one knee,
sitting or lying on someone on the ground all mean being on the ground. Three
things must then happen immediately :-
 |
The
tackled player must immediately
release the ball (passing or placing it is okay) AND he must get up or move
away. He’s out of the game until back on both feet. |
|
The
tackler must release his man and
move away quickly (referees are enforcing this as first priority). He also
can do nothing more until on his feet. |
|
The
next players arriving after the
tackle must all stay on their feet to play the ball. They cannot go to
ground to win ball even if the ball has spilled 10 or 20 metres
away.....unless it’s gone into in-goal when they are allowed to ground it.
And they can’t prevent opponents getting possession of the ball. They must
now also enter the tackle zone from behind on their own side; and if they
play the ball they must move away or pass or kick the ball - they cannot go
to ground within one metre of the tackle unless brought to ground by an
opponent. The opponent must also have entered the tackle zone from behind on
his side. |
For
offences of any above...a penalty kick is awarded.
Its
also illegal for any player to prevent the ball being released or passed : to
prevent a player moving away : to interfere in any way while on the ground ; or
to wilfully fall on or over a player to prevent possession being won. Tacklers
who end up on the wrong side can expect to be penalised. Any action preventing
continuity deserves penalty.
The Tackle law actually only ever applies for a few seconds at a time. There usually follows either quick second phase open play or a Ruck or Maul, both of which have their own Laws. There is rarely any Advantage from the Tackle as referees are encouraged to blow up immediately if the ball is not available to quickly recycle and give a scrum to the side going forward.
