Field goal

A field goal (formerly "goal from the field") is a general term used in some sports wherein a goal may be scored either during general play ("from the field") or via some sort of free shot.

Rugby football

A field goal or drop goal is scored by drop kicking the ball above the crossbar and between the uprights. Typically, it is only used for goals scored during open play ? place kicks are usually used for penalties and conversions. However, in the Sevens version of both codes and the Nines version of league, all conversions must be drop kicks. A drop goal is worth three points in rugby union and one point in rugby league (in league, more commonly known as a field goal); conversions are worth two points in both codes.

Related Topics:
Drop kicking - Penalties - Rugby union - Rugby league

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Two finals in the Rugby Union World Cup have been decided by drop goals in extra time. South Africa's victory margin in 1995 came from a Joel Stransky drop goal in extra time. Jonny Wilkinson duplicated the feat for England in 2003.

Related Topics:
Rugby Union World Cup - South Africa - 1995 - Joel Stransky - Extra time - Jonny Wilkinson - England - 2003

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

In rugby league, since the reduction of their value from two points to one in the early 1970's, the field goal's primary use has been in the latter stages of match in order to break a deadlock, or for "insurance" points. With the introduction of the golden point in the National Rugby League, the field goal is often the first choice option when looking to secure a win.

Related Topics:
Golden point - National Rugby League

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Generally though, a team will opt for a more attacking kick, in hopes of scoring a try, or else kick to gain field position.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~