What is the Difference Between Rugby League and Rugby Union Goal Posts?

Despite their origin in the same sport, rugby league and rugby union have taken on distinct forms in the 120 years since their split. While it may be hard for an outsider to distinguish between the two sports, there are enough differences to make rugby union and rugby league incompatible for any easy merger – not that fans would tolerate such a consideration anyway!

A difference that mostly goes unnoticed is the size of the goal posts. Both codes use 15m high goal posts for the premier levels of competition with the top edge of the crossbar exactly 3m from the ground. However it is the length of the crossbar and hence the distance between the goal posts that differs. According to the NRL’s Laws of the Game, rugby league goal posts stand 5.5m apart and the ARU stipulates that rugby union goal posts are 5.6m apart. In all other ways these goal posts are identical.

There does not seem to be any discernible reason for the variation, and in most cases it is not a concern. Given that both games are often played on the same field, most are fitted out for one or the other. If you do have an exclusive field it is advisable to meet the standard. For expert help with your rugby union or rugby league goal post purchase, speak to PILA sport - 13 PILA (13 7452) or email info@pilasport.com.au 

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