Rugby league is one of the most exciting, fast-paced sports in the world. If you’re new to it, the rules, traditions, and culture can seem a little overwhelming at first. But once you pick up the basics, you’ll quickly see why millions of fans are so passionate about the game. Here are five key things every new rugby league fan should know.
1. The Game Lasts 80 Minutes
If you are considering attending some matches, you may be asking questions like how long is a rugby game, and does the clock stop for breaks in play? A rugby league match is made up of two halves of 40 minutes each, with a short halftime break in between. Unlike some other sports, the clock runs continuously; it doesn’t stop for minor delays or substitutions. However, referees can add stoppage time if needed. For fans, this makes rugby league an intense, action-packed experience, with very little downtime.
2. Each Side Has 13 Players on the Field
Unlike rugby union (which has 15 players per team), rugby league teams consist of 13 players on the field at a time, plus a bench of substitutes. The positions are divided into forwards (responsible for gaining ground and tackling hard) and backs (typically faster players who look to create and finish scoring opportunities). Understanding the roles of these positions makes it easier to follow the flow of the game.
3. Tries Are the Main Way to Score
The objective in rugby league is to score a try, which is worth four points. A try is awarded when a player grounds the ball in the opponent’s in-goal area. After scoring, the team has the chance to kick a conversion for an extra two points. There are also penalty goals (two points) and drop goals (one point), but tries are by far the most celebrated scoring plays.
4. Tackling and the “Six Tackle Rule”
Rugby league is famous for its big hits and physical tackles, but there’s a clear structure to the contest. Each team has six tackles (or “plays”) to advance the ball as far as possible and try to score. If they’re stopped six times without scoring, possession switches to the other team. This creates a constant back-and-forth rhythm, with defence and attack clearly defined.
5. It’s a Sport Built on Community and Tradition
While professional rugby league is played at the highest levels in countries like Australia, England, and New Zealand, the sport has deep roots in local communities. Many clubs began as working-class teams, and that sense of pride and loyalty still shines through today. Rivalries, chants, and traditions are a huge part of the fan experience, making every game more than just a contest on the field.
Final Thoughts
Rugby league is a sport of speed, power, and strategy, but it’s also about community and passion. By knowing the basics, from the length of a match to how scoring works, new fans can quickly feel at home in the stands or in front of the TV. Once you’ve seen your first match, you’ll understand why rugby league inspires such fierce devotion around the world.
