Rugby vs Australian Football - The Main Differences

It can be very puzzling when thinking about the main differences between Australian football and rugby. However, with a keen eye, you will discover that these sports are totally different in many ways. It is therefore essential to know the differences therein. The following information will delve into the top ones so that all people can take note of the distinctions. Having said this, it is fair to mention that these two sports have unmistakable similarities. All in all, if you are a fan of one or both, you are sure to be enlightened by the insight below. 

The ball type

The Australian football and rugby balls are almost similar because they are oval in shape. However, the Aussie ball is much thinner than its counterpart. It would require a close examination to really tell the difference with this respect. It is worth mentioning that the Australian ball is much closer to the one used in the American football. When playing, the Australian football has more restrictions on tackling. 

The pitch

The pitch or the field plays an important role when it comes to recognizing the differences between these two exciting sports. In rugby, the field is rectangular in shape while in Australian football, the field is oval in shape. Rugby also comes with 2 vertical goal posts unlike Australian football which comes with 4 vertical goal posts and there is no crossbar. In Aussie rules, there is no offside unlike in rugby. Rugby also comes with a crossbar and the ball must pass through for a score to be made. 

The players

Perhaps the most conspicuous difference between Australian football and rugby is the number of players in the game. In rugby, the number of players is 15 while in the Australian football, the number of players is 18. Some people may not even have noticed this major difference but it is one of the best ways to distinguish the two. 

Scoring

Some people find the scoring a bit complicated in both. However, knowing the difference might make it much easier for you. In rugby, the player will run with the ball and ground it after crossing the line for a score which is referred to as a try. When it comes to Australian football or footy, as they call it, players attain 6 points after kicking the ball in the middle of 2 big sticks. These sticks are at the end of the ground. Here, fans might witness more goals because there is no intense tackling as witnessed in rugby. 


There are many other little differences to talk about between the two. However, the above are the major ones. It is advisable that the next time you watch either, look closely and get to tell the difference; you will be amazed at what you have been missing. Additionally, you will do away with the idea that there is no difference between the two games. As you have read above, there is a world of differences between the two sports and fans must distinguish them for optimal enjoyment and understanding of both AFL and rugby.