Brutal Rugby Spear Tackles and Big Hits
I was astounded this afternoon by a brutal-looking spear tackle by the USA’s Paul Emerick on England’s Olly Barkley. For the uninitiated, a spear tackle is a dangerous tackle in rugby where a player is picked up by an opposing tackler, then turned so that they are upside down. And plonked on their head.
They are dangerous, they can cause spinal damage, broken bones, shoulder and neck injuries. Banned in all forms of the game, guilty tacklers are often subject to fines or suspensions.
I think we’ve established that spear tackles are a very bad thing. So, prepare to feel guilty as you enjoy these videos. [Today's spear tackle hasn't made it onto Youtube, I'll update this post with it when it surfaces.]
Spear tackle on Richie McCaw, New Zealand v Australia
Saturday, August 19th, 2006
Australian winger Lote Tuqiri was handed a 5 match ban for this belter.
George Gregan’s yellow card Spear Tackle, Brumbies vs. Highlanders
Morne Steyn spear tackle on flanker Jacques Botes
A masterclass in how to earn a red card.
Some more big hits (not spear tackles, but devastating nonetheless) for your viewing pleasure
“What a hit! Look at this for timing…it’s exquisite, and I know it hurts.”
The commentator says it all.
Sébastien Chabal’s destroys Masoe
Simply punishing.
Butch James big tackle
Oo err, how’s that for a risque title?