“The Gate” is a term that is used regularly in rugby to describe the entry point of a ruck to try and legally steal or protect the ball.
A ruck is the contest that take place after a tackle for both teams to try and retain or steal possession.
The width ruck is set based on the position of the tackled player on the ground.
Defining “The Gate”: Legal entry requirements
The gate is the legal entry point within a ruck. The width of the gate is based on the width of the tackled player on the floor. The wider this player is on the ground the wider the points of entry for those entering the ruck.
Players must enter a ruck from the back foot. This means they must come into the ruck behind the point of the last player.
The imaginary “gate” that a referee is looking to see players enter through is the width of the ruck and sits at the very back point of the ruck on that side.
Why clearing beyond the ruck is essential
Coaches typically encourage their players to clear beyond the ruck. This is essential due to this gate. As soon as a player is driven past the ruck they must reenter the ruck through the gate.
If you don’t clear an opponent fully out of the ruck, the player can remain there to disrupt and slow down play.
Referee perspectives: How to avoid “Side entry” penalties
Tadhg Beirne had some questions to the Munster vs Ulster referee over his reffing of the breakdown. He felt Ulster were entering from the side to clear him out.
Competition in the ruck is all about entry point. Showing the referee that you are clearly attempting to enter the ruck from the back foot will make the difference.
Normally referees only give penalties at ruck times if they play the ball or an opposition player illegally too. They will also typically give a verbal warning before they penalise for ruck entry. The key things are to listen to the referee and look at what is happening in a game. If a referee is giving penalties for side entries early in a game, this may be an area of focus.
Learn from the referee early in a game and adjust your style accordingly.
