Rugby, out of touch?

Sir, – Yes, the game of rugby has changed since turning professional. It has evolved and there have been rule changes, etc, but I do not necessarily agree with Kevin O'Sullivan (February 24th) and Robert Bates (February 20th) that the game has in any way declined.

Ireland’s recent win against France was not a great game for the spectator; however, the reverse fixture, the championship decider last year in Paris, was a great game. It had it all, with drama and suspense up to the final whistle. Ireland’s last-minute defeat to New Zealand in November 2013 was a classic game full of skill, excitement and endeavour.

That’s the way the game goes – there are good, bad and average games. ’Twas ever thus. Rugby in the halcyon amateur days of McBride, Gibson, Slattery, etc, was just as capable of delivering great spectacle and mediocrity as the present game. In fact, certain aspects of the game back in the amateur days were woefully slapdash. Contrast the lineout then to now – and I’d best not mention the scrums.

The game has evolved, and with greater organisation, defensive systems are now just as important as attack.

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It’s a harsh, physical game and I agree with Mr O’Sullivan that thuggery has no place in the game, but cannot agree with his assertion that referees turn a blind eye to it. Serious acts of thuggery are now less common in the game, and referees have the help of touch judges and the third match official (TMO) to deal with foul play.

Many a rogue boot made contact with Willy John Mc Bride’s head at the bottom of a ruck and went unpunished. – Yours, etc,

TOM BRADLEY,

London.