what is a penalty try

A penalty try in rugby is an automatic 7 points awarded when foul play by the defending team prevents a probable try from being scored. It is usually given under the posts, and no conversion kick is taken.

Quick Scoop

A penalty try is meant to stop teams from benefiting from illegal play near the try line. If the referee thinks the attacker would likely have scored but for the infringement, the try is awarded anyway.

When It Happens

Common examples include:

• A high tackle that stops a clear scoring chance.
• Collapsing a maul or scrum close to the line.
• Deliberately preventing the ball from being grounded.

What Happens Next

• The attacking team gets the score automatically.
• The referee signals it like a normal try.
• The offending player may be yellow-carded or sent off if identified.
• No conversion kick is needed.

In One Line

Think of it as rugby’s way of saying: “You can’t foul someone out of a likely try and get away with it.”

TL;DR: A penalty try is a referee-awarded try worth 7 points, given when foul play stops a likely score.