The inaugural NRLW Magic Round faced challenges due to inclement weather and significant injuries, but Ruan Sims expressed deeper concerns about recurring issues in the game, specifically problematic tackling techniques.
Both the men’s and women’s leagues have been grappling with hip drop and high tackle incidents, prompting efforts from the league to eliminate these dangerous practices. Despite a push for stricter enforcement, Sims pointed out that some players appear unable to adjust their positioning effectively before making contact, leading to these penalties.
During the event in Newcastle, several players were cited for high contact offences and hip drop tackles, with injuries and head assessments forcing others off the field. The match review committee flagged ten players, with seven penalised for careless high tackles, two for dangerous contact, and one for a crusher tackle. Notably, Dragons halfback Raecene McGregor received a one-match suspension for a serious tackle involving Cassey Tohi-Hiku. Sims observed that many of these infractions occurred early in games, suggesting that fatigue wasn’t a factor. She speculated that the root cause is often a technical issue in tackling.
Sims stressed the importance of proper tackling technique, mentioning that coaches instruct players to tackle at the ball. However, mistimed tackles can lead to high contact if a player’s head is in the wrong position. She emphasised that players need to adapt their technique, lowering their bodies effectively when engaging with opponents.
Moreover, she noted that the rise of hip drop tackles typically arises when defenders fail to keep their feet moving during contact, which she deems critical for maintaining balance and control in a tackle. Sims remarked that defenders need to continue driving forward to secure their position in the tackle.
Despite her worries about tackling techniques, Sims acknowledged the resilience displayed by teams, commending their completion rates under challenging conditions. She expressed optimism, stating that as players gain experience in varied weather and playing conditions, their performance will undoubtedly improve.
In summary, while the inaugural NRLW Magic Round exposed significant concerns related to player technique and safety, the resilience and adaptability of the teams showcased the potential for growth and enhancement in the competition.