Latest Blogs

A Guide to Watching Rugby for New Fans

Rugby is one of the fastest growing sports in the world. As a newbie, the journey to understanding rugby is an amazing ride.

This guide will look to demystify the absolute basics of watching rugby, including the on-pitch action, and why some fans may want to bet on the action!

The Basics of Rugby Union

Rugby is a game played between two teams of 15 players. The game is split into two broad categories of players: forwards and backs. Forwards are usually bigger and more powerful, tasked with winning possession through scrums, lineouts, and rucks. Backs are typically faster and nimbler and are involved in scoring points and setting up attacking opportunities.

Key Rules

• Passing: Players may only pass the ball backward or sideways; no forward passes are allowed.
• Scoring: A try is worth five points and is scored by grounding the ball in the opponent’s in-goal area. Teams can then attempt a conversion kick for two extra points after a try.
• Tackling: Players need to tackle other players safely by wrapping themselves around them; dangerous tackles can lead to penalties.
• Continuous Play: While several sports feature stops in action, in rugby, the play continues despite the tackles, with teams fighting through different phases to win back possession, such as in rucks and mauls.

Game Structure

A rugby game is divided into two 40-minute halves. Whichever team has the highest number of points at the end wins. The match of the knockout stage will continue for extra time if it’s tied.

Watching a Match

As a first-time rugby viewer, you should understand the game’s general flow. Watch how quickly teams go from offense to defence and vice versa and how players talk to each other on the field. Knowing the players’ positions can help you enjoy the games more:
• Props: Scrums and lineout support.
• Hooker: In charge of scrums and lineouts.
• Scrum half: Connects forwards and backs in the play.
• Wingers: Speedy types looking to score tries.

Enjoying Rugby Culture

Rugby is not just a sport but a community full of passion and brotherhood. Supporters tend to congregate in pubs or around televisions together, which makes for a convivial atmosphere. Discussing your game with your fellow fans makes you love the game more and more.

Betting on Rugby

Some fans bet on rugby to make their viewing experience more engaging. Understanding the different types of bets can be crucial in betting:

• Match Betting: Betting on the winner of a match.
• Handicap Betting: This is betting on a team to win by a given margin.
• Special bets: Dedicated to specific events in the match, such as the first-scoring team.

If you’re new to betting, it’s best to check this guide by Lottoland Sports, which has everything you need to know to get started.

Conclusion

Experiencing rugby definitely brings thrills and excitement with every kick, tackle and try. New fans can get a complete feel for this dynamic sport by learning the rules and tasting the sport’s culture. Whether you are shouting for your team or laying your first wager, rugby provides a thrill that will keep fans coming back time and again.


About Ellaine

Ellaine is the founder of FRN and author of "Mini and Youth Rugby: Complete Guide for Coaches and Parents" (published October 2015). She has been playing rugby union for over 10 years in the UK and the US for teams including Oxford University Blues, London Wasps, Henley, NOVA, and GWU. She has recently developed a love for rugby 7s and has played on several international rugby 7s teams. She also enjoys playing touch rugby and regularly plays for the FRN Mixed Touch Rugby team. She is passionate about helping others develop a love for rugby. View all posts by Ellaine

Buy our Book!

FRN Rugby Blogs

Follow FRN on Facebook

Follow LIT 7s on Facebook

Follow FRN Touch on Facebook