Clearing out at the ruck

[fortacelli]

Can anyone clarify the laws regarding clearing out at the ruck, please? Last week I was penalised for diving over the ball in a ruck. In actual fact, I was dragged forwards by my opposite number. The ref gave the penalty against me. I informed the ref (as we walked away from the ball) that I hadn't dived but had been dragged forwards over the ball, and he said that it was my responsibility to stay on my feet at the breakdown. Now, my understanding of the laws here is that clearing out must involve pushing an opposing player backwards off the ball, not dragging him towards you over the ruck. Am I wrong?

[lynam1104]

As with most laws concerning the breakdown it's a bit hazy on what the law is. This is what i think he means when you get to the ruck you must stay on your feat if you fall over by your own choice or not it is a penalty.
im sure Smartcooky will be along soon seems like hes memorize the law book he should make it clear for you.

[TRF_Olyy]

Aye, Cooky will be able to elaborate, being a retired(?) referee and all,

IMO, though, the referee was wrong. The supporting-your-own-weight thing is so you don't lie on the ruck, if you were near it and got yanked in there's not a lot you can do,
I'm sure i've seen people penalised for pulling players into a ruck before aswell


Edit:
It could be seen as collapsing the ruck? Seeing as the guy was intentionally killing play by dragging you over/down.

[smartcooky]

IMO, your referee was wrong

16.3 RUCKING
(a) Players in a ruck must endeavour to stay on their feet.
Sanction: Penalty kick

(b) A player must not intentionally fall or kneel in a ruck. This is dangerous play.
Sanction: Penalty kick

(c) A player must not intentionally collapse a ruck. This is dangerous play.
Sanction: Penalty kick

All the parts of this Law (which is the one that refers to players staying on their feet at ruck time) talk about "endeavour" and "intention"

All the endeavour and intention in the world is not going to keep you on your feet if you are at a ruck, leaning forward and an opponent pulls you forward..


The supporting-your-own-weight thing is so you don't lie on the ruck

No problem with "leaning" on the ruck, but the bit about "supporting your own weight" really refers more to the tackle situation where you must be on your feet and unsupported when you attempt to grab the ball.