Fan Terminology: Words Every Supporter Should Know

Hello, rugby enthusiasts! Whether you're a seasoned veteran of the terraces or a fresh-faced novice, the vibrant world of rugby is filled with terminology that might leave you scratching your head. This comprehensive guide aims to decode the essential terminology every rugby supporter should know, ensuring you shout with confidence and share in the camaraderie of the game. So, let's kick off!

1. Ruck

One of the first terms you’ll need in your lexicon is "ruck". It occurs when the ball is on the ground and at least one player from each team is in physical contact over the ball. Players use their feet to push the ball back to their teammates while staying on their feet and driving forward.

2. Maul

A "maul" is similar to a ruck, yet distinctly different. It happens when a player carrying the ball is held by one or more opponents and one or more team-mates bind on the ball carrier. Key here: the ball is held up and not on the ground - which would make it a ruck.

3. Scrum

Perhaps one of the most iconic scenes in rugby, a "scrum" is used to restart play after a minor infringement. The forwards from each team bind together, in packs of 8 - 3 in the front-row, 2 locking in the second-row, and 3 breakdown forwards in the back-row -, and push against each other while the ball is fed into the tunnel between them.

4. Line-out

When the ball goes into touch (out of the playing area), a "line-out" is used to restart the game. Players, usually the forwards, from both teams line up perpendicular to the touchline and the ball is thrown back into play, resulting in an aerial contest for possession.

5. Try

The holy grail of rugby, a "try" is scored when a player touches the ball down in the opponent's in-goal area. Worth five points, it is the ultimate objective of every offensive move.

6. Conversion

Following a try, teams have the opportunity to score two extra points through a "conversion" kick. This kick is taken from a point in line with where the try was scored, aiming to drop the ball through the uprights.

7. Tackle

A "tackle" occurs when a defending player brings the ball carrier to the ground. The tackled player must release the ball immediately, allowing both teams to compete for possession.

8. Knock-on

A "knock-on" happens when a player fumbles the ball forward with their arms or hands, resulting in a scrum to the opposition. It’s considered an infringement and can halt your team’s momentum, so hands like glue are essential!

9. Offside

Being "offside" is a common penalty in rugby. Players must be behind the hindmost foot of the hindmost player in a ruck, maul, or scrum to be onside. Venturing offside too early can offer the opposition a free kick or penalty.

10. Blindside/Open Side

The "blindside" and "open side" refer to the sides of the field relative to where the ball is being played. The blindside is the narrower side of the field, while the open side is the broader side. Understanding these terms can enhance your appreciation of strategic plays.

11. Drop Goal

A "drop goal" is scored during open play through a drop kick over the crossbar and between the goalposts, earning the team three points. It's a mix of skill and precision often seen in tightly contested matches.

12. Penalty

Penalties are awarded for more serious infringements. The non-offending team can choose to kick for goal, kick for touch, or opt for a scrum. A successful penalty kick through the posts scores three points.

13. Sin Bin

Players committing serious or repetitive infringements may be sent to the "sin bin" for ten minutes, leaving their team a player short. It’s a tense period for spectators as they watch the team fend off the opposition one man down.

14. Cap

A "cap" is a term referencing an appearance in a match for a national team. The origin lies in the practice of awarding a physical cap to players, a tradition still upheld today.

15. Dummy

A “dummy” is a crafty play where a player feigns a pass to deceive the opposition and typically sees the player dart through an unexpected gap. It's a moment of magic sure to get the crowd roaring.

16. Tap-and-Go

A "tap-and-go" is a quick way to restart play after a penalty. Rather than opting for a scrum or a kick, the player taps the ball with their foot and charges forward, often catching the opposition off guard.

17. Garryowen

A "Garryowen" is a high, tactical kick designed to give the chasers a chance to contest for the ball in the air. It’s named after a rugby club in Limerick and remains a favoured tactic for applying pressure.

18. Breakdown

The "breakdown" is the hub of activity immediately after a tackle, where players contest for the ball on the ground, competing to secure or steal it through rucking.

19. Blood Bin

If a player is bleeding, they are sent to the "blood bin" to receive treatment and must be temporarily replaced. The sight of a bloodied warrior is a testament to rugby’s physicality, but safety and treatment come first.

Wrap-Up

Rugby is a sport steeped in tradition, strategy, and raw passion. Familiarising yourself with these key terms not only enhances your enjoyment of the game but also allows you to partake in the rich tapestry of rugby culture. So next time you're at a match or catching up with mates in the pub, let the lingo roll off your tongue with the ease and confidence of a seasoned player. Cheers to many more thrilling moments on the pitch and in the stands!

Up the rugby and happy supporting! 🏉