What is the penalty for charging down a kick at goal too early in rugby union?

Answer 1

Is the kick in general play or a place kick for a conversion? In both cases, it's basically a case of getting your body in the way of a kick that has just been made - the aim is stop the opposition from either gaining territory or scoring points through kicking. In general play, (either territory punts or drop-goals) make sure you're on-side, run up to the kicker and try to bat down the ball as it leaves the boot (remember if it hits your hands this is NOT classed as a knock-on and any on-side player is free to scoop up the ball and carry on) BUT... be aware that if your hands are outstretched trying to reach the ball, your whole gut, chest and FACE are exposed - it's never a good look to take a hurtling rugger ball on the nose... Safest bet is to jump into a kicking opponent while slightly turning, this protects your more 'sensitive' areas - if you have no choice but to take 'em head on though, cross your arms in front of your face as the kick is made. As for charging down a conversion (haven't seen this succesfully done in ages, dunno if it's still allowed...), it's a case of being behind your own goal line, but not between the posts, and as the kicker begins his final approach to convert a try, you run up and try and use your arms/body to get in the way of the ball, trying to stop it from travelling to the goal - just like in the general play way noted above... ps - nothing looks better to spectators than a well timed charge-down, especially if it leads to your team gaining possession deep in the 'enemy' half. In addition to the large block of text inputted by 'Fisticuff': A charge-down from a conversion attempt does not revert back to an open play were anyone on-side is free to pick up the ball. Charging down the conversion is still allowed as I have done it myself. Worth trying particularly if there is narrow margin in the score line. To avoid a charge down from a place kick ensure you place the ball far enough back from the opposition to give you enough time to take your run up and kick the ball before they can reach you. An alternative to charging down would be trying to tackle the kicking player or push him off balance. A nice dump-tackle on the fly-half while he's standing on one leg always goes down well with the crowd!

Answer 2

The penalty is retaken and the defending team has the right to charge removed.