Italy came within an inch of a famous Six Nations victory over France in Lille this evening as Paolo Garbisi’s penalty rebounded off the right-hand upright.
Under severe pressure, as it was, Garbisi’s pre-match routine was interrupted by several incidents.
Firstly, as the Azzurri playmaker was steadying himself for the kick, the ball mysteriously fell off the tee despite the match taking place in an indoor stadium.
One incident that Garbisi certainly had no control over was the movement of French players in the build-up to the penalty.
These actions have led to many online suggesting that Garbisi should have been allowed to reattempt his effort.
Looking into the World Rugby kicking laws, the following two points would suggest that Garbisi could have an argument to make for a reattempted kick.
‘If the opposing team infringes while the kick is being taken but the kick at goal is successful, the goal stands, and a further penalty is not awarded. If the kick is unsuccessful, the non-offending team is awarded a penalty 10 metres in front of the original mark. Sanction: Penalty.
If the kicker indicates to the referee the intent to kick at goal, the opposing team must stand still with their hands by their sides from the time the kicker starts to approach to kick until the ball is kicked.
What did you make of the kick? Should Garbisi have had a second attempt? Let us know in the comments below.
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