Shaun Edwards: Scrapping experimental laws has helped

Friday 26 February 2010
Published By: David Rawlings
Six Nations > Wales

Doing away with the experimental laws which have harmed rugby union in the past few years has made the game a far more entertaining spectacle, according to Shaun Edwards.

The Wales defence coach said that two "enlightened" referees may ensure that this weekend's matches at Cardiff and Twickenham are two exciting encounters.

He pointed out that, as each referee is South African, the chances of a match akin to the Super 14 encounter between Chiefs and Lions two weeks a go is likely due to the new interpretation of the rules being employed to such good effect in the southern hemisphere.

Although describing that game as "an aberration" featuring two sides defending appallingly, Edwards said that the Super 14 games with closer scorelines illustrate that rules favouring the attack benefit every rugby union side, as well as the fan.

"The way the tackle area is being refereed is quite refreshing; the tackler clearly having to release his grip on player and ball and be on his feet before he goes back for the ball," he concluded.

Posted by David Rawlings