28 February 2024
Free kicks will be paid for;
• Block. Any action that prevents an opposition Ruck from contesting the ball, while not being in a position to contest the ball
• Block. Goes past the flight of ball, contacts opposition Ruck and then comes back searching for the ball.
• Unduly pushes or bumps that prevents an opponent from contesting the ball:
• A hold of any type.
• Cross the line before ball is bounced or thrown up.
Examples (click ‘VIEW FORM EXTERNALLY’)
https://www.loom.com/share/b64664c9527d49ac936ccd2b44dcdeaa?sid=7cc3544a-ea3d-48fa-99b3-ffbc56ab8211
1. A correct free kick is paid against Mt. Eliza. The ME ruck takes his eyes off the ball, makes contact in a pushing motion with his YCW opponent and therefore prevents YCW from contesting the ball.
2. The Frankston YCW ruckman clearly pushes his Mt. Eliza opponent out of the way as the ball is being thrown in causing him to be unable to contest the ball. Correct free kick.
3. The Seaford player runs past the flight of the ball, making contact with the Hastings ruck preventing him being able to contest the ball. A correct free kick.
4. This is an unwarranted free kick against Frankston YCW. The YCW ruck is entitled to stand his ground and whilst he does take his eyes off the ball, his prime objective is to contest the ball.
5. This is borderline but likely should be play on. The Karingal player marginally goes past the ball, however it is unlikely that the Somerville player is unable to contest the ball, ie, he could have jumped. Minimal contact is also made.
6. An excellent free kick. The Crib Point ruck holds down the arms of his Somerville opponent, preventing him from contesting the ball.
7. In this instance a free kick should have been paid against the Karingal ruck for crossing the centre line prior to the ball leaving the umpires hands.
8. In this instance the Sorrento non designated ruck is preventing the Mt. Eliza ruck from contesting the ball. A correct free kick is paid.
9. Correct free kick for a ruck block. The Devon Meadows player never has a chance to contest the ball. The Karingal ruck’s prime objective is to prevent his opponent from contesting the ball.