SECTION 5

MODE OF PLAY

Object 1. The object of the game shall be to ground the ball in

the opponents’ in-goal to score tries (see Section 6)

and to kick the ball over the opponents’ cross bar to

score goals (see Section 6).

Start of Play 2. The captains of the two teams shall toss the coin in

the presence of the referee. The captain winning the

toss shall decide to either kick off or choose which

end his team shall defend. The losing captain shall

take the other of the alternatives.

Mode of Play 3. Once play has started any player who is on side or

not out of play can run with the ball kick it in any

direction and throw or knock it in any direction other

than towards his opponents’ dead ball line (See

Section 10 for Knock-on and Forward Pass).

Tackling 4. A player who during play is holding the ball may be

tackled by an opposing player or players in order to

prevent him from running with the ball or from

kicking or passing it to one of his own team. (See

Section 11 for Tackle).

Obstruction 5. A player who is not holding the ball shall not be

tackled or obstructed. (See Section 15).

NOTES

Shoulder Charge 5. If two players are running side by side near to and towards

the ball it is permissible for one to charge the other with the

shoulder.