The Bluffer's Guide to Rugby

Bluffer's Guide to ...

by Steven Gauge

Instantly acquire all the knowledge you need to pass as an expert in the world of rugby. Know what to say, what not to say, what to do in the company of rugby fans, and what excuses to make when the drinking games start. On the field of play never again confuse a Garryowen with a grubber, a blindside with an eye-gouge, or a spear tackle with a turnover. Bask in the admiration of your fellow rugby lovers as you pronounce confidently on the chances of your team trouncing the opposition, impress them with your seemingly extensive knowledge of rules and tactics, and make sure that youíre well versed in the difference between the two ëcodesí of rugby league and rugby union. Above all know that the origins of the game lie in a blatant display of cheating.

128 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 1, 2014

Reviews

[Nicky · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was at the Wales vs England game during the Six Nations in 2013. I know enough about rugby to know that other Welsh people will often want to kick me when I declare this, given that Wales won. Especially when I point out that my grandfather's seats are just over the centre of the pitch, at a nice height to see everything but still close enough to pick out the individual players and feel the heat from those enormous flares they set off. Apart from all that, however, I pretty much rely on the other spectators to keep me vaguely orientated towards what is actually going on in the game. (The last game I attended was Wales vs Italy with my sister, and she helped me figure out precisely when to scream at the ref, etc.)

Anyway, this book helps somewhat with that, explaining amidst the humour what each member of the team does and a few of the rules. Mostly, though, and unhelpfully, it advocates not bothering to know the rules and just playing it by ear. It's true that I suspect most teams of doing that, but I would like to acquire a vague idea of why the referee is awarding penalties, assuming he knows why he's awarding penalties and isn't just doing it because he doesn't like the look of the hooker (not that kind of hooker).

It's funny, and somewhat helpful, but not really substantial.