In A Game Of Rugby Union, What Is Drop-kick And When Is It Used?

A drop-kick is a kick from the hands of a player where the ball actually hits the ground before contact with the boot is made. It is an art in itself, and requires regular practice. The kick has to be timed to perfection at the point at which the ball touches the ground. If contact is made any earlier, it is an illegal drop-kick, and if it made later, the kick is often fluffed or misdirected.

The drop-kick has three essential functions and one which is rarely used. The most important use of the drop-kick is for drop-outs, kick-offs and dropped-goals. Drop-outs are awarded when a team touches the ball down in their own in-goal area, or when the ball goes into touch in their own in-goal area. The team is then required to restart play by drop-kicking the ball over the 22-metre line. Similarly, a kick off occurs when a try or a goal is scored. The opposing team is required to restart play by drop kicking the ball from the half way line further than ten metres. A dropped-goal is when a player drop-kicks the ball towards the opposing team's post. If the kick goes over the bar and between the posts, then three points are awarded.

The drop-kick can also be used for conversions. These are kicks towards the goal posts after every try is scored, to attempt to gain a further two points. Conversions are nearly always done by place kicking, but in the seven-a-side game, a drop-kick is commonly used for conversions.

For restarts and drop kick