Double Movement Meaning in Rugby Union

Double movement is an illegal action where a tackled player tries to score after they are down. Once a player’s knee or hip touches the ground, they are officially tackled and must stop. They are allowed one reach to place the ball on the goal line if they are close. However, they cannot use their legs to crawl or push themselves forward a second time to score. This rule prevents players from creeping toward the try line while defenders are forced to let them go. If a player does this, the referee will cancel the score and award a penalty to the defense. It is a common mistake made by players who are desperate to reach the line in tight games. For example, a center might be tackled one metre short of the goal and crawl forward on their knees. The referee will blow the whistle and rule it a double movement instead of a try. It protects the fairness of the score.