'Law application is promising' says Watson

The strict application of law in four key areas has seen a decline in the number of reset scrums and kicks in general play, as well as an increase in tries - according to André Watson, SA Rugby's Manager of Referees.

A review of the first round of 2010 FNB Varsity Cup presented by Steinhoff International matches and of pre-season Vodacom Super 14 warm-up games has provided encouraging signs for a new refereeing focus.

"There is no way we have enough evidence to reach any definitive conclusions, but the early signs are interesting," said Watson.

"Referees are focusing on strictly applying the laws in four areas to free up the ball and if what we have seen so far is continued through the season, we will have achieved our desired aims.

"I want to make it clear that no laws have changed; they have just been more correctly applied, played and coached."

Watson said the impact had been significant when comparing the first round of the Varsity Cup in 2010 with the first round of 2009:
* Reset scrums declined from seven per game to 2.8 per game - a reduction of 60%.
* Kicks in general play declined from 48.5 kicks per game to 32.3 per game - a reduction of 33%.
* Total tries for the round rose from 12 to 30 - a 250% increase.

"It is way too early to use this evidence to say that the changes have had the desired results but at least they appear to be pointing in the right direction," he said.

Watson reiterated that the four key areas where the Laws were being more strictly applied were:
* Tackle - tackler to release IMMEDIATELY and roll away or get back on his feet.
* Scrums - correct engagement, correct binding and straight body positions.
* Off-side in general play - players to stand still until put onside as per law.
* Observe for obstruction at kick-offs and line outs prior to a maul forming.

Meanwhile, the referees have been confirmed for the second week of FNB Varsity Cup presented by Steinhoff International matches.

Varsity Cup referees - Round Two, February 8:

FNB UCT v FNB Pukke, Groote Schuur
Kick-off: 4.30pm
Referee: Dilbert November
Television match official: Shaun Veldsman
Assessor: Dennis Immelman

FNB Shimlas v FNB NMMU, Shimla Park
Kick-off: 6.30pm
Referee: Luke Burger
Television match official: Gerrie Coetzee
Assessor: Gerrit Coetzer

FNB Tuks v FNB UJ, Tukkies Athletics Stadium
Kick-off: 6.30pm
Referee: François Veldsman
Assessor: Theuns Naudé

FNB Maties v FNB TUT, Danie Craven Stadium
Kick-off: 7.30pm
Referee: Matt Kemp
Assessor: Thuso Mngqibisa