Play-offs, semi-finals, Top 14 final: what do the rules say in the event of a tie?

This weekend of June 15 and 16, 2024 launches the final phase of the Top 14. There are therefore only 5 matches left to find out who will be champion of France and will succeed the winners at Stade Toulousain.

As these tough matches begin, it is important to keep the rules in mind. Particularly on the case of a tie between two teams at the end of a match.

Case of tie: what do the rules say?

Rugby News has consulted the official regulations for the 2023-2024 season established by the NRL. Article 332 mentions the case of a tie at the end of regulation time, therefore 80 minutes of play.

In the event of a tie between the two teams, the referee grants a 5-minute rest to the players, before throwing a 20 minute extension. This is divided into two periods of 10 minutes, without rest when changing sides.

If after this extension the result is still drawn between two teams, the referee designates the winner, taking the following criteria:

• The greatest number of tries during the match;
• Most penalty goals during the match;
• Most drops during the match;
• Fewest people listed on the match sheet permanently excluded during the match

Tie: penalty shootouts

If after taking into account all these criteria no winner is chosen, the match referee throws the penalty shootout series. The conditions are defined in Rule of the Game No. 8 of the specific provisions of the FFR.

It is mentioned that before the shootout begins, the referee draws lots between the two captains, and the winner chooses the side of the shootout. The loser begins the session as follows:

• A series of 5 kicks placed on the 22 meter line, facing the goal posts.

If tied at the end of this series:

• Always 22 meters facing the goal posts, with as many extra kicks as necessary, according to the “sudden death” principle. The first team to take the advantage is declared the winner, based on an equal number of kicks attempted by both teams.

Follow all the news from your favorite cities and media by subscribing to Mon Actu.