/Gold/Gold%20Trusted%20Service%20Award%20-%20Badge%20-%201x1.png?width=481&name=Gold%20Trusted%20Service%20Award%20-%20Badge%20-%201x1.png){kind=spacer}
Whats the difference between Rugby Union and Rugby League?
Rugby Union and Rugby League, while sharing a common origin, have evolved into distinct sports with key differences.
Here's a breakdown of the main distinctions:
1. Number of Players:
Rugby Union: 15 players per side
Other variations of rugby union is 7s, 10s and 12s aswell as Touch Rugby, Beach Rugby, we cover those who travel to Dubai 7s or Majorca Beach Rugby Festival every year.
Rugby League: 13 players per side.
2. Scoring:
Rugby Union:
- Try: 5 points
- Conversion: 2 points
- Penalty goal: 3 points
- Drop goal: 3 points
Rugby League:
- Try: 4 points
- Conversion: 2 points
- Penalty goal: 2 points
- Drop goal: 1 point
3. Tackling and Possession:
Rugby Union:
- Contested rucks and mauls are a major part of the game.
- Possession can be contested after a tackle.
- Lineouts and contested scrums are used to restart play.
Rugby League:
- After a tackle, play restarts with a "play-the-ball" (a quick restart).
- There are no rucks or mauls.
- Possession is limited to six tackles, after which it changes hands.
- Scrums are much less contested.
4. Set Pieces:
Rugby Union:
- Emphasis on set pieces like scrums and lineouts.
Rugby League:
- Fewer set pieces; play-the-ball is the primary restart.
5. General Play:
Rugby Union:
- More emphasis on tactical kicking, structured play, and set pieces.
- Generally considered to be a more physical and tactical game.
Rugby League:
- Faster-paced, with a focus on running and attacking play.
- A more fluid and less stop-start game.
Get ready for Rugby pre-season training.
6. Popularity:
Rugby Union:
- Wider global reach, with strongholds in countries like New Zealand, South Africa, England, and France.
Rugby League:
- Popular in regions like northern England and Australia.
Key Rugby Organisations
Rugby Union:
Rugby League:
British Amateur Rugby League Association (BARLA)
