I didn't mean to maul your tackle.

Today I went to a rugby match.
I saw Saracens beat Biarritz by 20 points to 16 at Vicarage Road, Watford.

Caption Competition:
There will be a prize for the best caption to accompany this image, which I took during the warm up.

Thanks to Wikipedia I think I've got to grips with rucking now.

What is a ruck? (Yes, that's R - u-c-k)

A ruck is when at least one player from each side bind onto each other with the ball on the ground between them.

This physical contact, or binding, is generally while facing each other.

Additional players may join the ruck, but must do so from behind the rearmost team mate in the ruck, this is often referred to as 'coming through the gate'.

Players attempt to arrive at the ruck first, drive forward and bind onto the opposition.

Once a ruck is formed the opposition cannot use their hands, making it easier for the attacking team to retain possession. The defenders try to slow the ball from coming out of the ruck, This can be done by using hands, lying over the ball, or going to ground deliberately.

A drive around a ruck is usually performed by the forwards and is intended to break the defensive line using weight and force. The ball-carrier runs directly at the opponents and will endeavour to protect the ball so as to retain possession when contact occurs. This play, often referred to as a 'pick-up-and-drive', usually offers a slow but sure advance.

Sometimes the tactical aim is to suck defenders into a ruck or maul, opening gaps in the defensive line for the backs to exploit.

'Come on you Sarries'


Incidentally for those who are not in the know - and that included me - The Saracens mascot is a Camel, and their supporters wear Fezes - Just like that.