Super Rugby Aotearoa To Adopt 'Golden Point' System

Super Rugby Aotearoa To Adopt 'Golden Point' System

Super Rugby Aotearoa will see five New Zealand sides face off in a 10-week domestic competition which kicks off on June 13.

Each side will face off against the other four franchise twice with the team on top of the table winning the competition.

In a move to avoid drawn matches in Super Rugby Aotearoa the 'golden point' system could be implemented.

Highlanders coach Aaron Mauger has confirmed that New Zealand Rugby has tabled an NRL-style 'golden point' system to decide drawn games in Super Rugby Aotearoa.


"It has been tabled by New Zealand Rugby and the coaches have been part of that discussion as well," Mauger said on Wednesday.

"I think it's a great idea. It's great for the spectacle. You can get a clear winner or loser."


 
 

According to the Stuff.co.nz, the proposal is in line with NZ Rugby's commitment to being innovative in Super Rugby Aotearoa, and although major rule changes are unlikely to be made the golden-point system would add some spice to a 10-week competition that doesn't have a finals system.

 

In the event of a draw after normal time, teams get a one minute break before an extra 10 minutes of play. The first team to score points via any method in that period wins, with no points by either then resulting in a draw.

 

Crusaders coach Scott Robertson said the fact the competition winner would be decided on straight points, with no playoffs, meant he was behind the concept.

"If there's a number of draws, it can actually disadvantage a team quite heavily.

"It brings a bit of excitement, it's something new. It's a brutal competition so an extra 10 minutes is going to be more entertaining for everyone, as well as test the depth of your squad.

"Yep, great call."

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