League greats have applauded the NRL’s move to stop rewarding players for milking penalties by laying down after minimal contact in the defensive line.
Diving has gone to ridiculous proportions in recent seasons, with referees often denying tries when defenders take blatant dives, infuriating coaches, fans and players.
But all that is set to stop in 2025 – or at least become less prevalent – with the NRL instructing referees to show more discretion in this contentious area.
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“It’s a great move by the NRL and I particularly like the way the NRL has worded it,” the legendary Brad Fittler told Wide World of Sports.
“They have given the refs the discretion to call it as they see it and the refs should appreciate being given that latitude.
“We need to do something to stop players lying down – it’s become such a huge part of the game and it is a blight on the game.
“Using decoy runners has become the best way to break down a defence, and defenders have learned that lying down is the best way to counter it.”
Raiders coach Ricky Stuart was typically blunt in his assessment of the interpretation change heading into the side’s Las Vegas season opener.
“You’ve got to make players defend,” Stuart said.
“It’s an easy decision for them to lay down and they are being rewarded for it.
“Hopefully this will be the end of it.”
Redcliffe boss Bob Jones was dubious about how the referees will handle the changes.
“I wish them [referees] the best of luck – it’s hard to tell whether players are diving or are legitimately impeded and some are very good at diving,” he said.
“This trend has been happening for a long time but it is getting worse so it’s good the NRL is trying to do something about it.
“But it is hard to adjudicate who’s fair dinkum and who is not. It costs teams games so it’s crucial that they get it right.”
Fittler is also delighted with the NRL’s move to clean up the play-the-ball, where if a player doesn’t make a realistic attempt to put his foot on the ball, a turnover results.
“I’m sick and tired of kids and even older players at coaching clinics asking me if they have to touch the ball with their foot in the play-the-ball,” the former NSW coach said.
“It’s become a joke. There needs to be an effort by the players and this should ensure that happens.”