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S14 players say yes to ELVs

Wednesday 16th July 2008

Vote of confidence: ELVs scored big with Super 14 players in a SANZAR survey

A SANZAR players' survey of the Super 14 players who played under the ELVs in 2008 has revealed a significant base of support for the new laws, including the free-kick innovation which is causing such consternation in the global game.

90 per cent of the 260 responding polled players said that the laws were easier to understand, with 83 per cent claiming that the ELVs had been positive for the game.

Significantly, 85 per cent of the players said they endorsed the free-kick innovation - the award of a free-kick instead of a penalty for all offences bar offside and serious foul play - which the northern hemisphere unions have, by and large, refused to trial next season.

Australian players association boss Tony Dempsey said the decision-makers should take the players' views on board.

"These results clearly demonstrate that the players prefer to play under the experimental law variations introduced this season for the Super 14 competition," Dempsey said.

"It is important the game's administrators listen to the views and attitudes of the players in respect of this very important issue so that we continue to ensure rugby is both an entertaining and interesting sport for both its participants and fans alike."

Dempsey's South African counterpart, Piet Heymans, concurred.

"The survey is a significant confirmation that the ELV's are contributing to a more entertaining game. We need to bring the Northern Hemisphere up to speed with these exciting changes," he said.