Differences in game-related statistics between home and away International Rugby Teams

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to analyze the differences in game related statistics between home and away international rugby teams. The simple was composed of 101 games played by Ireland, Scotland, Wales and England during 2004 to 2007 years. The blowout games (final differences over 29 points) were deleted to avoid inconsistencies in the game analysis as are considered as exceptions (n=3 games). The observational methodology was used to design an observational template that coded categories and performance indicators. The variables studied were pooled into 4 groups: scoring profiles, possession of the ball durations and use of the space, offense and defense. The results showed differences between home and away teams in the following performance indicators with higher values for home teams: tries scored, total possession of the ball duration, ball possession duration in the first half, balls won in open zones, balls won in opponents’ 22 m. zone, mauls won, passes after the ruck, passes completed. Conversely the away teams obtained higher values than home teams in total tries allowed. The results found allow the coaches and performance analysts to improve the training exercises and competitions when control by competition and game location in International Rugby Competitions.