The Difference between Rugby Union & Rugby League - EXPLAINED!

[@NinhLyUK]

This video explains the differences between Rugby League and Rugby Union. For those of you who have been asking - I like both kinds of Rugby, but I prefer Rugby League. I am entitled to my opinion and I don't criticize anyone who thinks differently to me. Please be civil when commenting on this video! Please comment, rate, share, subscribe and post on Reddit to discuss.

[@reeser3817]

I'm on my way to Chicago to go see my first match ever. This helps a lot...Thanks

[@NinhLyUK]

Hi Michael. That's great, I hope you enjoy the game! The USA is getting better year-on-year at both types of Rugby and within 20 years, they'll be a competitive force worldwide. If you need any other help with the rules, feel free to ask and I'll try my best to answer them. In the meantime, please subscribe and share this video where you can. Thanks :)

[@EvrybdyKnwsTht]

well done mate

[@NinhLyUK]

EvrybdyKnwsTht Thanks pal, appreciate the comments!. Be sure to share this video and subscribe :)

[@mh2.024]

Thank you for this video. This is the easiest and best video I have found to describe the difference. As a lifelong Football fan (US), I am wanting to transition from the NFL to watching Rugby. I am over tired of the NFL's corruption and what appears to many as fixing games for big market teams. I believe Rugby to be a much more honest game. It is also as the video says quite comparable to American ball, and as I have been finding out very exciting to watch. So again thanks for the video!

[@vjvallance]

As a rare breed (in the UK at least) I have played both. I love them both equally. League is much harder physically and requires greater athleticism than Union. Union is much harder tactically and requires greater intelligence. Both require toughness but the type of toughness differs. In League, you will take much harder hits and much more often. You will need to be able to take those hits and get up immediately. You also need the explosive power to make those tackles. In Union you need a different kind of toughness. As a forward, you will spend large parts of the game pushing strong and heavy men off the ball, and will often find yourself at the bottom of a pile when the scrum/ruck/maul collapses around you. This can be very physically gruelling and the constant battling (especially in bad weather) requires a physiological toughness that isn't really needed in League. I really do love both equally but since I switched to playing Union I've always said that “rucking is resting”. You don't get a chance to draw a breath for one moment if you're in a tight game of League. And honestly, there's no way I could go back to playing League now (would at least have to stop smoking first!)

[@thejoshandcharles1]

Played Union rules for a year as a kid with a local club. Then my school team had a league side. I played one game and said no thanks. One of the lads was also on my Union side and he also politely bowed out after the second game. Remember looking at him and saying 'there's less running in football than this' 😅

[@daaaiiii]

Trust me ruck is not resting at least against a physical team

[@jnic2165]

What a great comment, and with out the typical bias BS. Both sports are great, let's enjoy them both before they are legislatid to oblivion

[@skippythealien9627]

damn thanks for the breakdown! this sounds so interesting

[@LeNoLi.]

sounds like rugby union is the real sport from your description

[@philippquos2493]

For me as a German who grew up with football only, i wondered why I never truly understood the rules of rugby. I always wondedered why I sometimes got it, and other times I didn't understand what was happening . It makes sense now. I must have been watching Rugby League and Rugby Union matches. Thanks for clearing this up!

[@sigmas_handle]

From India here. I love union. I love the strategy and tactics involved in the game. It's very immersive. It's like two ancient armies having a go in a battle field..and defending their fort. Both armies employs a range of ploys and strategies, and have their own different types of warriors in the field, having their own strengths and weaknesses. This (rugby union) is for those who loves muscles and brute strength, action and battles.. endurance and heart, and spiced with tactics and strategies..stories♥️

[@Facts_Quod]

Hi I am also from India it's nice to see other Indians enjoying Rugby BTW which country you supporting for Rugby World Cup?

[@sigmas_handle]

@@Facts_Quod All blacks have been my favryt all these years. But I do love to see matches between the historically good teams like Australia, NZ, England, Scotland, South Africa, Argentina, Fiji etc. They are tight teams, very competitive and all their clashes are very intense.

[@catchmeifyoucan1807]

Wow! Nice to see a Rugby fan from India. We are a rare breed😅. Am a big fan of England, but at this WC they are a distant 5th or 6th. The Irish seem to be the favorites. Have to see how they cope up with the mighty All Blacks tomorrow🤞

[@RRTNZ]

Great video. Growing up in Canada and playing Union it's still my favourite, and having lived in NZ for over 20 years the set pieces and tactical aspects of the game make it more entertaining for me. However, I acknowledge that League is a truly great game, it's physicality is second to none. Also, 2 less players per team creates a lot more space on the field which makes for more exciting line breaks. We get lots of Aussie NRL games here and those are really something to see if you enjoy a game with speed, skill and brutal displays of power. If someone could get Americans to like League they'd make a billion dollars.

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks, much appreciated. Believe it or not, the RFL are looking to expand into the US (like the Toronto Wolfpack) so it might happen sooner than you think. Check out my channel for more like this :)

[@usarugbyleagueunionfan]

rrtaylornz Do they really show NRL up there? On regular TV?

[@Silveretta69]

I tend to prefer Union because at least when a player gets tackled there is a fight for the ball. I hate the stop & start kind of tackles from League. Granted if you like that, that is fine. I just enjoy watching the fight for the ball.

[@roughgooch7859]

SpaceHerpes69 I suppose that’s the trade off though. By having uncontested tackles BUT only 6 attempts to get a try it allows an equal amount of possession for both teams. I’m Australian so obviously League is the more popular code down here as the game is more fast paced compared to Union and the state of origin rivalry between NSW and QLD brings some excellent biff. If I could make changes to both codes. I would get rid of the line outs in Union and just replace them with scrums and allow say 8-10 tackles before handing over. And for league and this is the only thing that still pisses me off to this day that we don’t have is contested scrums. The only reason the scrum is used these days is to temporarily take the forwards out of the game but I reckon a 6 man contested scrum would be way more exciting

[@rolandhearn5377]

I've never understood this type of comment. Yes there is no contest at the point following the tackle but the play the ball happens within seconds, where has in Rugby they mess around, lock the ball in, fall all over it and then have a penalty. If lack of flow is your problem you should be a league fan.

[@brandonhea4394]

Same here you can have the ball as long you have possession for a long time

[@londonstone2148]

Umm I agree but for America’s rule is fair

[@hanielalvarez1978]

i think the same thing!!!

[@oscarj0231]

I feel like Union players are built heavier (as in a more muscley) and league players are lighter and faster. I personally prefer Union (obviously as I'm a lock) but I kind of understand League

[@NinhLyUK]

+Ozwaldo 264 Yeah, each sport has their merits and downfalls. Both great games though! Thanks for stopping by, be sure to share this video and subscribe :)

[@InTheZ0n3]

@@NinhLyUK league is my favorite

[@waratahdavid696]

It wasn't always the case, I was a big RL fan in the late eightys, ninety. A big fan of David Boyl, Royce SImmons, Les Davidson. RL forwards used to be a tough and interesting crew. Switched to RU in the early 2000s, didn't watch a game of RL for probabaly 10 years and when I did again could believe how boring it was. The players all seemed to have become the same shape , a little difference in size, but the nuggety guys had no place :(

[@stukerr4228]

I grew up in a family of rugby union fans so I play it I find it more fun and I play prop or hoker so making big takles and getting the turnover is sooooo nice

[@noelzy7839]

As an Aussie, I can confirm to many that Rugby Union and Rugby League are very different games. I have played both in my time and they are two great sports. For anyone interested in playing rugby for the first time but don't know which one to pick, rugby league is a lot easier for beginners. If you're given the ball in Rugby League, just run as fast and as hard as you can until you're brought to the ground by the opposition and if you hear the ref shout 5th or last tackle, just kick the ball up the field. If you're defending, just bear hug the opponent to the ground until the ref shouts "release" and get back 10 metres with the rest of your team and repeat when the dummy-half touches the ball. Easy and simple. Rugby League is the most popular and watched sport in Australia and its always something you'll see and talk about when you're down under. I started playing Rugby Union three years ago and it is a lot harder to learn but it's a lot more fun if you're looking for chaos in tackles and contested scrums and learning calls and names for specific tactics and calls when moving the ball around. I immediately became a fan of the maul. Always love me a good maul. One thing I always hear when non-rugby union fans watch rugby union games they usually say something along the lines of "he's pretty fast for a white boy". The wingers are usually a lot bigger and faster than their Rugby League counterparts in my opinion. So all the more reason to try rugby league first before jumping into the deep end with rugby union. Unlike football (soccer), your jersey number is important. Don't just put on the first jersey you like because its your lucky number. You always have to pick a jersey number that matches your position so both your teammates and coaches can help direct you where you need to be in a game. Rugby League: Rugby Union 1 - Fullback 1 - Prop (loose head) *left side prop* 2 - Winger 2 - Hooker 3 - Centre 3 - Prop (tight head) *right side prop* 4 - Centre 4 - Lock 5 - Winger 5 - Lock 6 - 5/8 (five-eight) 6 - flanker 7 - Halfback 7 - flanker 8 - Prop 8 - number 8 9 - Hooker 9 - Scrum half 10 - Prop 10 - Fly half (Halfback) 11 - Second rower (Back rower) 11 - Left winger 12 - second rower (Back rower) 12 - Left centre (inside centre) 13 - Lock 13 - Right centre (outside centre) 14 - Right winger 15 - Fullback

[@NinhLyUK]

Yes, exactly. Thanks for the breakdown.

[@michaelr.7805]

Agreed with everything you said except for the one line, "Rugby League is the most popular and watched sport in Australia and its always something you'll see and talk about when you're down under." That is not true. Aussie Rules (AFL) is the most watched sport - it is dominant in 4 of the 6 states of Australia and contains teams from 5 of 6 states. NRL is dominant in 2 of 6 states and contains teams from 3 states (and one from NZ). I have lived in all the 6 states and 2 territories of Australia and honestly you won't hear anything at all about NRL in states such as WA, SA, TAS.

[@04loulo]

@@michaelr.7805 nor VIC. very much a NSW and QLD sport

[@BrisbaneBroncosfan67]

@@michaelr.7805you never hear about fl in QLD or Nsw. Also those two states make up 55% of Australia’s population. And the tv rating for Nrl are significantly higher than AFL. Even if you add ticket sales, NRL is still much more watched, and this isn’t even including New Zealand.

[@jessetrewarn7936]

AFL taking over NSW

[@Tom-yu9if]

Union for watching and getting into, but league for a casual afternoon on the couch. IMO Union is the better sport but the NRL is a great competition, despite its many controversies.(from a slightly biased kiwi).International union is miles ahead though, even league fans don't really care about international league.

[@LomuHabana]

Exactly, I probably wouldn’t watch league if there was a real Union alternative, but there isn’t, club Union sucks. NRL is a competition similar to the AFL (AFL still beter imho, highly recommendable if you are not watching it already). A really competitive league with great match ups every weak.

[@RachelTurner81]

this is the real answer tbh, international union, club league

[@Mrchips469]

I love British insults.

[@NinhLyUK]

+Mrchips469 Thanks - though they're probably not said in such a fashion in real life!

[@max7694]

Piss of ya wanker

[@megamonkey2226]

Fuck u

[@joshuabullion1429]

IF YOU LIKE BRITISH INSULTS, MY RESPONSE TO THAT COMMENT: I love mexican insults!! HA!

[@klabumalami6699]

RIP British Empire Scums

[@benjaminweitner353]

I was playing american football in Spain and Germany and am very new to the world of Rugby. I came across it while being in Australia and didn't even know back then that there were two different types of Rugby, that the All Blacks isn't the same team as the Kiwis etc.That was a very informative video Ninh Ly, thanks so much for sharing this :)

[@NinhLyUK]

Benjamin Weitner You're welcome Benjamin! I'm glad this video was helpful in understanding the difference between the two games. If you need further clarification of the rules, I made a separate video for each code of Rugby in my videos section. Thanks for stopping by, be sure to share this video and subscribe :)

[@sarelras4103]

I also played American football and soccer American football was the toughest

[@redman853]

​@@sarelras4103😂

[@EM-ic1yp]

@@redman853 It's true

[@redman853]

@@EM-ic1yp only for Americans dude

[@chezpapa3]

Growing up on union I can't stand the thought of making a tackle and not even having the chance to get the ball off them

[@Xx_MLGPRO_xXXx_SNIPEZ_xX]

But you can? 1 on 1 tackles

[@arnbrandy]

I'm quite new to rugby and never saw the tackling team get the ball from a ruck! How would they do that without committing a offiside?

[@Xx_MLGPRO_xXXx_SNIPEZ_xX]

@@arnbrandy tbh with you mate you're better of just watching rugby league.. it's a lot less messy

[@georgehorner7109]

You can get the ball if the player receiving the rolled ball isn't quick enough.

[@JalanSalur]

do you even know how to tackle???

[@imnw2263]

I'm a union player myself and prefer it, but respect to league players aswell, your sport's awesome! And thanks for the video- liked and subbed! :)

[@NinhLyUK]

Dynamo Davies Cheers man, I appreciate the comments! Both kinds of Rugby are awesome in different ways. Thanks for liking and subscribing :)

[@SANICRAWY2J]

I'm from Australia and I love both. I've played both at a fairly high level for my age and they're fun in different ways. This is a great video, keep it up man.

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks man much appreciated! Check out my channel for more like this :)

[@macflow14]

How come union it's not popular in Oz?

[@SANICRAWY2J]

@@macflow14 idk, I guess just because it's more free flowing and easier to teach someone who's new to rugby.

[@LomuHabana]

Has more to do with the working class nature of League I’d say, not the rules of the game.

[@sting1077]

us Fijian adapt easily to both code's, I play five eight in both code's for my village team on the same week. our national sport here is rugby Union but in terms of international ranking league is ranked better than union. So I guess we are naturally born to play rugby...BOTH FORMS OF RUGBY!!!

[@NinhLyUK]

Yes, Fiji has a tendency to do very well in both codes.

[@Trajan2401]

Union is far bigger and popular than league.Only a handful of countries play league where as most countries play union.

[@Primal-Weed]

Lol Fiji ranked higher in league, that’s because the international level in league is a complete joke 😂.

[@ricardosoto5770]

Fijians thing the right way.... no toxic class divisions. They are all variants of Rugby football.

[@alfiethebutler3805]

Fiji is ranked higher in League I guess because international competition isn't as good as in Union, though Fiji is known to produce some of the most talented players, in both codes, Semi Radradra being a prime example. Sa Malo E!

[@Manak1988]

PNG is also a country (worth mentioning) that is more Rugby League then Union. Rugby League on PNG is on the level of religion. There are also some smaller countries where also it can be debated which is more popular League or Union. But for sure, Australia is the best example for this video. It's very nice video. I played both, but I prefer League because the ball is more in play then in Union, and that's scientific fact. American Football - average of 11-13 minutes of active play out of 60 minutes Rugby Union - average of 25-35 minutes of active play out of 80 minutes Rugby League - average of 55-60 minutes of active play out of 80 minutes Union is more kicking based game in compare to League, and League is more contact based game in compare to Union.

[@NinhLyUK]

Yes, Australia was the best example I could come up with where League and Union were popular sports, but League was more popular. I didn't mention PNG because it's pretty much the 'only game in town' over there! And yes, I love those statistics man. I actually had those stats myself, but I didn't want to cause some kind of 'League v Union turf war' by quoting them! Thanks for the comment man, be sure to share and check out some of my other videos!

[@Arka2011]

Also PNG is the only country in this God-forbidden world having Rugby League as their national sport... ;) And I have been there. In the evening, if you go to any ground in Lae Town, you see youths are running like a bunch of hooligans and playing a game called Rugby League. Well, it is a pretty cool game... :)

[@RDDHopsing77]

Unfortunately, Rugby League is very predictable. ie. dummy half passes ball, player runs 10m (not very hard as defence must be back 10m ) Do this for 5 plays. Make 40m - 50m safely. Then kick ball. Tackle opposing team near their tryline. They try to do the same back while you hope for a mistake. If they do and you get the ball inside their quarter, pass the ball around and try to score a try. If can't score try by the 5th tackle do a grubber kick over defender's tryline and try to force a line dropout. Keep doing this for 80minutes. Although Rugby can be boring and in its own way predictable it can be far more active, variable in plays and exciting than RL. And if one is talking about minutes of active play Rugby 7's has 20 minutes even though the games only last 14 minutes. At least it seems that way. Rugby 7's players are easily the fittest of any football code. (with fitness being defined as anaerobic endurance, aerobic endurance, strength, speed, flexibility and agility.)

[@Primal-Weed]

Yet in union they contest for the ball. League just wait after the 5 tackles. And no one cares about PNG lol.

Exept not really worth mentioning. I mean fuck are you going to mention Antarctica as well...

[@davigarciaa]

Two amazing games. My preference is for Union, but i love League too. The union Sevens come next!!

[@ricardosoto5770]

I share your opinion.

[@hiphopgalaxywolf7993]

Granny’s party 🎉 has to go to school

[@hiphopgalaxywolf7993]

Sorry I just put watever Word came up granny’s party

[@gozza7199]

Ironically perhaps but union sevens is more like Rugby League.

[@karlosdeevs]

@@gozza7199 a lot of folks would say 7s is more like tag rugby.. and that is no insult to Tag, which i find the healthiest of all codes.

[@carefree4798]

I am from India and I am really looking forward to learning and getting to know the game with the upcoming world cup. I never even knew that there were two codes of the game. I always used to be confused regarding the tackles and the point system. This video did clear many of my doubts. I look forward to learning about other complex rules, tactics and positions. By the way, I am an avid cricket and football (Soccer) fan and it is fun to see many of the national rivalries in these sports carry over to other games. Australia got battered by England in the Ashes and the South Africans yet again lost in the Cricket World Cup Semis to New Zealand. Eagerly waiting to see how they do when they turn out as Wallabies, Springboks, All Blacks and the Lions.

[@NinhLyUK]

+CareFree Thanks for the comments on this video. I have a specific Rules of Rugby Union video. Check it out on my videos page. Be sure to share this video and subscribe :)

[@malakadesroches2989]

As my son has recently moved from union to league, and understanding that I have to learn another game before the season starts, this video was excellent in highlighting the differences. I love Rugby Union...but can see the commonalities with American Football, and I think that once I get the numbering of the positions straight I will be able to follow the game fairly well (perhaps you could add this to a future video.) Either way Rugby, league or union, is a phenomenal sport, and I'm excited to see it increasing in popularity in the states with the MLR and NARL!! Let's go DC Calvary!!!

[@Mysummercoast]

Played both codes all my life. I've been injured a million times more in league, prefer watching league but rather play Union. Great video.

[@NinhLyUK]

+Jake H Thanks Jake, I appreciate the comments. I don't miss the injuries playing either sport to be honest! But great sports nevertheless. Be sure to share this video and subscribe :)

[@cstrutherskgs]

Is there a reason for more injuries in league?

[@4KTUNCO]

@@cstrutherskgs faster tempo. Sorry for the late reply btw

[@LomuHabana]

What kind of injuries? That’s important, classical leg/foot injuries, or also head injuries?

[@thebpulse6477]

Shared this to all my mates. We mainly like league better due to being a fast pace and simple game. Rugby league players are gonna be amongst the fittest athletes in the world due to the ( reduced interchange ) rule in 2016, can only imagine state of origin with that rule. I subbed and liked the video. Very well put together and explained, top notch work mate!

[@NinhLyUK]

The Bpulse Thanks man, I appreciate you kind comments and for sharing and subscribing.As a former Rugby League player myself, I agree it's more fast paced and simple. Although I don't mind Union and can comfortably watch or play it, it's League all the way for me! Thanks for stopping by! :)

[@thebpulse6477]

Yeah man!! No worries mate 😄

[@thedonfonz2481]

I knew you preferred Rugby League. I could sense it in your video. But well done still! awesome video

[@NinhLyUK]

+Fono Opetaia Thanks Fono. I get a lot of people saying that I prefer Union. And I get people saying that I prefer League because of this video, but you can see it both ways. I'm glad you approve of this video though, be sure to share this video and subscribe :)

[@macflow14]

@@NinhLyUK where are you from in England?

[@henrymagoun3230]

I’m an American and just started following the NRL in Australia. I find that Rugby League is very exciting and has some similarities to our football

[@johnhelms8226]

As an American, I knew little about rugby and did not even know there were two codes. Then, my family and I went to Bath, England, and I decided to start following Bath Rugby. This led to a desire to understand and appreciate both codes. Now, I follow teams from both codes in both hemispheres. I enjoy both, and I appreciate the appeal of each. Some union games are boring, and some league games are boring. Each can be thoroughly exciting and entertaining. Some people prefer one over the other, but you don’t have to make a choice. You can enjoy and appreciate both!

[@NinhLyUK]

That's awesome! And a very open-minded approach, which is a refreshing change to the standard narrow minded hatred that I usually get on this video. I've seen a Bath Rugby game, at the rec - it was pretty awesome. I still prefer Rugby League, but like you I understand the merits of both sports. Thanks for stopping by, check out my channel for more content like this :)

[@kishascape]

@@NinhLyUK I prefer league too. I haven’t played in 14 years though so I forgot there was another kind and was wondering what the hell was going on when I was watching a game recently.

[@SportsFan838]

That was the most insightful comment I've heard yet.

[@thekeegster6278]

As an American, I was watching my first rugby union game, and I had no idea what the heck is going on. Then, I watched Rugby League and I thought “Holy crap, this is so much more fun!”

[@NinhLyUK]

Hi Keegan. Believe it or not, this is the view of most Americans, as Rugby League and American Football are very similar in mentality. I believe that with the more recent rule changes, Rugby League is actually close to American Football than it is Rugby Union. If you like League, check out the NRL in Australia or the Super League in the UK. The US does have it's own Rugby League league, it's just not very good. Thanks for stopping by, :)

[@ifameya]

As a fellow American who grew up in Fiji, I played Union, League, both 15's and 7's in Union and 13's and 9's in league. I love both games, I transitioned to league from union and transitioned back. I can tell you league improved my tackles and drive ability. Union helped me in league because it taught me to think about the flow of the ball and looking for those strategic gaps in the game that is only learned when playing union. However, 7's has to be the hardest I've ever played, it takes a different fitness level to play 7's rugby, even 9's in league I could rest on the field but 7's is just non-stop and the stamina it takes is second to none. I love both codes and I think it's healthy to transition back and forth but I'm a little surprised that league hasn't taken a bigger following in the States.

[@ricardosoto5770]

Or go to Toronto to the Wolfpack games. The first north american team in the RFL Super League.

[@Hammer332]

Rugby League is not closer to American Football than Union. Come on. The line of scrimmage and forward passing alone make American football totally different to either Rugby codes.

[@philipgwyn8091]

As a Canadian, contesting the tackle makes more sense to me.

[@kitthornton2336]

I played Rugby (Union) for 30 years before I got OFS disorder, but I never got the opportunity to play league. I consider that a loss, since it looks like my sort of game. I don't know of many League teams here in the US, but I'd think it might appeal to American sensibilities.

[@NinhLyUK]

Hi Kit. Yes, I think so too, as League is the form of Rugby that is more like your version football. League is played sparingly in the US and their national team is actually quite good! Thanks for stopping by.

[@connorbosley4431]

there are ideas about introducing a new york rugby league team to super league

[@usarugbyleagueunionfan]

Kit Thornton It’s great to see my fellow countrymen interested in League. The USARL plays on the East Coast and has a team in ATL and 3 teams in FL. There’s a team in Chicago. The US struggled mightily in this past RLWC. There’s 2 consortiums (1) Manly Sea Eagles (2) Ricky Wilby (Super League) who want to start a team in NYC. I know I’m a bit of a league homer yet I truly believe Yanks will love this sport. I watch like 3-4 league games a week. It’s addicting and the guys have class compared to the NFL. We as Americans have to spread the League gospel so to speak. The product speaks for itself. As an NFL fan I had to train my brain to watch league. After a hard hit they don’t jump up in each other’s face and talk about their Mom’s and shit. Way more sportsmanship. It’s the best.

[@MartyPape78]

I would agree. I tend to watch Union and 7s here in the states. I haven't been exposed to league nearly enough. I see 7s and a gateway rugby drug to my countrymen. It's fast paced and a ton of scoring.

[@GarnachoEmpire712]

Connor Bosley doesn’t make sense considering league is set in england there is Catalan in France but France is really close

[@luiseduardo586]

Best explanation I have ever found, thanks.

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks bro.

[@JRSideProject]

Hi Ninh! I am very impressed with all of your how-to videos :) My wife is a big fan of Rugby Sevens and we were wondering if you had any plans to make a video about it? Thank you!

[@neconst]

Brilliant video. Really well explained and executed, great metaphor with chess/checkers, and even the quality of the videos standardised so that we knew when we were looking at union or league footage. And funny. Thank you!

[@neconst]

+nicolas constantinesco Perhaps it might have been worthwhile mentioning what are the key competitions in each of union and league. Nevertheless, I found this really helpful

[@bargainbintheologian]

Thanks for the video. I'm an American who started watching any rugby I could find on TV and was watching a lot of aviva premiership last season. I just recently started watching NRL because of the matches shown on Fox sports 2. I'm liking the rugby league better. I like the tackle better as it keep the game going faster. One of my favorite things to watch in American football is the running back which is what sparked my interest in rugby.

[@NinhLyUK]

Hi Steven John thanks for stopping by! Yes, a lot of my American fans prefer Rugby League as the format of the game is very similar to American Football, i.e. limited tackles and possession, needing a strong running game and scoring tries. I prefer Rugby League too, mainly because I live in that Rugby League area of Lancashire as indicated in the video! If you like Rugby League, I think you'll find the NRL and Super League Rugby more entertaining than Aviva Premiership Rugby. I appreciate your kind comments and be sure to share this video and subscribe :)

[@usarugbyleagueunionfan]

Steven John Good Man! If only we could recruit Tight Ends, running backs, line backers, and secondary (DB’s, Safety’s) into league we’d be top 3 in league in the world every year.

[@ricardosoto5770]

Most American high school football players will not get into into College, most College players will not get into the NFL or the CFL,,,,,, the USA got a huge opportunity there... Millons men of talent wasted.

[@opwave79]

It definitely would be a great idea to recruit former high school and undrafted college players into either code of rugby. I can envision linebackers, DT/DE, and O-line players as forwards. A mobile QB would make an excellent scrum half or stand off. Tight ends would be effective centres or flankers. RBs and WRs on the wings and fullback positions.

[@georgehornsby2075]

The chess checkers analogy is very apt. Rugby Union encourages far more specialisiation which opens up a ton of strategic decisions, pack weight, number of specialist ball distributers, whether you go for a breakdown or lineout specialist. This creates a lot of mismatches in teams which as a fan is fun to see. The downside is that union doesn't create players with the same ball handling and running skills that league players have. I suppose union is less interesting to the majority of non rugby fans but has a huge amount of depth for purists to get excited about. Unfortunately I think league is being squashed between the 7's and 15's game. I used to watch league more than 7's but since about 2014 (and especially since its inclusion in the olympics in 2016) I'll watch 7's if I want fast paced running rugby and if I want more of a slow burn I'll go for union.

[@NinhLyUK]

Fair enough. And yes, I tried to use that analogy to breakdown the nuances of both games in a nutshell. Thanks.

[@sjc4]

I actually understand/like Union better, and my favorite sport as an American is American football. Despite the retreat/set part of League and the limited possessions, the strategy of Union makes much more sense to me because of how complicated NFL schemes can get. Specialized players, more contact in groups, game management and strategy... this is MUCH more American football than League. The rules of League might be easier to understand for the uninitiated, but overall the Union game is more like American football.

[@NinhLyUK]

Rugby League can be just as strategic - it's not just mindless running into people that most Unionists would have you believe. The sad reality is that not many people actually spend the time to learn about League. They first learn Union (because it's more popular) and then dismiss it when it's different to what they know. If you read some of the comments, this is abundantly true, as Union fans generally have some form of superiority complex, even though they've probably not spent any more than 5 minutes actually trying to understand the sport.

[@sjc4]

@@NinhLyUK that's likely true. Canadian football is a great sport too, but I'll never understand or love it the way I do the American game because I grew up watching and learning one, whereas the other I only discovered when I was older and then the rule changes threw me wayyyyy off.

[@NinhLyUK]

@@sjc4 Like in both codes of Rugby, there's always time to try the other one! Canadian Football is actually pretty cool, and even though I grew up watching the American game, I actually prefer the Canadian version. ESPN actually airs CFL games during the season so if you get a chance, actually spend a season watching it. I guarantee you'll find a lot to like about it. By the way, check out my other channels explaining those games! :)

[@henrilamer5486]

A more accurate analogy would be RU is like chess whereas RL is like chess but with 5-10 sec per move.

[@Randomoter]

Excellent analogy at the end there, bru. Wish we had League to compare Union too, here in South Africa.

[@gunner4life568]

I watch rugby league on youtube it is nice sport but I still prefer the tactical aspects of union

[@SportsFan838]

​@@gunner4life568 I know this comment was 3 years ago. But come on dude. League has some form of tactics in it. How else would they get to the try line?

[@lukestubbs.]

I’ve commented on this video a fair few times now but I just wanted to say that this video inspired me to learn more about the history of both sports. Four years ago when I had to do a speech in English, I may or may not have plagiarised this video by citing it off by heart. Now that I do a sports media degree, this video has helped me heavily in developing a deeper knowledge for league and union.

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks! Glad you found this helpful. Congrats on the degree.

[@f0292]

thank you for very short but informative information. my city just got a rugby league team and it's quite confusing that they play differently with most kind of rugby I've seen.

[@NinhLyUK]

Yes - Rugby League and Rugby Union are two different things - played completely differently.

[@ricardosoto5770]

Toronto?

[@pars4245]

Well done my friend ! Easy to understand and very informative !

[@NinhLyUK]

pars4245 Thanks man, I appreciate your kind comments. Be sure to share this video and subscribe :)

[@churthebol8054]

i respect both codes. i'm from New Zealand and to be honest most people here like both. but the majority would rather watch an AB's game than a kiwi's.

[@NinhLyUK]

Joshua Kairau I kinda figured that most New Zealanders prefer Union to League. Having said that, you guys have a hell of a Rugby League squad! Thanks for stopping by, be sure to share and subscribe :)

[@Biggles27]

As a spectator for me Union can be more exciting as you know you've got 6 tackles in league to make the line. Whereas I think there is more of a sense of jeopardy. Good video.

[@NinhLyUK]

+Biggles27 Interesting take. To be honest, both kinds of Rugby are great sports, and there's elements of Union that I'd like to have in League and vice versa. Thanks for stopping by, be sure to share this video and subscribe :)

[@NinhLyUK]

***** There's been talk of a hybrid game for years, but so far, no-one has come up with anything, as neither side would concede any changes. Having said that, a half and half game was supposed to be scheduled between Sale Sharks and Salford Red Devils this year. It never happened.

[@ricardosoto5770]

I like the lineouts and the contested scrums from Union better, not so sure about the over use of penalty kicks or out of bounds, league might have some reason there. Ruck and mauls can be fun for a player but from the spectator POV, they are confusing since the ball just dissapears for a while. Probably the 6 tacke rules make more sense. I would use the League game but with contested scrums and uncontested lineouts for the opposite side that got the ball out of bounds, making them like american football set plays...All kicks on goal shall be drop kicks, even the conversions. Since players are bigger and faster now, drop the number to 12 or 13 as league does. What are your suggestions for a hybrid game?

[@Neo-wx5qo]

I met a lad from Sheffield that explained the history of Union vs League to me, I was completely unaware of it until recently. It's fascinating and very politically driven. As a South African I prefer Union but I have watched League and for a time lived in Warrington right near the Halliwell Jones stadium. Obviously as a Bok its all about scrums, rucks and mauls for me. I love watching that battle where to be honest I do get quite bored with League, and I think it's because there seems to be little effort in keeping the passing going once you're tackled. Watching 20 phases of Union where it builds and keeping the ball alive is much more interesting to me. The stop start nature of League just sees me drifting off a bit. Great video and its great that both League and Union exist as life would be boring if we all liked the same things.

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks, glad you like this video. Yes, there's pros and cons to both sports - but each to their own I guess. Check out my other videos for more like this :)

[@Emper0rH0rde]

I'm American, and rugby union is my second favorite sport behind soccer (football).

[@Emper0rH0rde]

I am not a special snowflake. I resent that. I'm an idiosyncratic grain of sand.

[@JalanSalur]

what a shame

[@Ace-mw9pm]

You must be a Mexican.

[@KanyeTheGayFish69]

Ruben T then how are you American and why is there baseball on your profile pic?

[@user-wr4ik5bn5i]

@@Ace-mw9pm Or Argentinain

[@TheFrostyVision]

this is true. I've recentlly started watching both rugby union and rugby league and as an NFL fan primarily I find rugby league alot more easier to understand and alot more similar and I personally think that the NFL while I love how tactical it is should strive to play more like rugby league. I really can't stand killing time in the NFL and I can see why many foreigners talk crap about us when shit like that happens.

[@TheFrostyVision]

+buddyjesus I think the NFL should pick up a few things from CFL and Rugby league like making the snap count alot shorter so it's a more continuous game and killing clock time happens less. Another thing I think we should do is not let subs in unless it's a timeout, injury, 4th down, or score. THat would change alot of things and make the game more interesting.

[@NinhLyUK]

+buddyjesus Yup, I agree with with all of that. Thanks for stopping by, be sure to share this video and subscribe :)

[@TheFrostyVision]

+Ninh Ly I've been watching alot of your videos lately and I just subscribed. Keep putting up the good work with these sports videos.

[@NinhLyUK]

buddyjesus I'll try to! I currently work two jobs and if I could make KZbin my full time job, I'd probably make more videos and be very good at it! Thanks again :)

[@jack031511]

+Ninh Ly that's yeah you take forever to upload I feel sorry for you but I'm only 9 so i can't even know how it is to work 1 job

[@arvedui89]

Union is the one I saw for the first time and I still find it more interesting. As I can find some spectacular sets of play in league, for the most of the time it is one-dimenional, it looks like five phases of running into the wall and then a bomb/grubber kick. Union is much more complicated and more diverse with it's (contested) scrums, lineouts, mauls and even rucks. Still, untidy rucks, slowing the ball, collapsing scrums and pointless kicking for the own 22 gives league lovers a handfull of arguments. But for me all of mentioned are results of poor quality of the team, not necessarily a fault of the game.

[@padoification]

in league the scrums are also contestet :Dbut i know what you mean, the first 30-50 min its like running straight in a wall, because you want to tire the opposition

[@JalanSalur]

I think you need to wear specs mate

[@aussiesoulsurfer553]

I’ve played both codes and enjoyed them both for me they were totally different games but with the same objective. Union tends to have a lot more specialised positions and requires different skill sets. Rugby league is a simpler game however requires players to be fit and agile.

[@NinhLyUK]

Yes, precisely. I completely agree with your analysis of these two sports.

[@davegray1969]

Thank you for the explanation, been watching 6 nations, rugby championship, etc when I can here in the states. My university had a club team I watched several times and could never understand rules.

[@NinhLyUK]

Hi David. Thanks for that. I have more detailed videos about both sports. Rugby Union: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qZ7RpoWeg9mHaKc Rugby League: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rHfaead8f8alnqc Hope they help?

[@Starkangelus44]

Bloody fantastic video man, I'm familiar with both games I'm a Union guy while my Brother prefers League ( to each their own) but now when people ask me about getting into Rugby I'll point them towards this video. Keep up the great work.

[@NinhLyUK]

Starkangelus 44 Thanks for the compliments man, they really mean a lot! And thanks in advance for sharing this video and be sure to subscribe to see more videos like this :)

[@Slackboy72]

Quick note: George W Bush is a union man and played it at university/college.

[@NinhLyUK]

Yes, he played at Yale I believe.

[@SJSUPhil]

Bill Clinton played rugby union at Oxford. And JFK played at Harvard along with his brother Joseph.

[@NinhLyUK]

Comment, rate, like and subscribe!

[@jennytilling1991]

Great video!

[@NinhLyUK]

jl tilling Thanks! I'm glad you like it!

[@KangaKucha]

I prefer both and think both can learn from eachother. But for faq sake: WEAR A HELMIT!!!

[@tflf99]

+Mattheos Clemence (Kangiwi) no we are not footbal players

[@saalemsadeque9516]

Thanks. Makes it easy for a novice like me to understand and follow the game...Now I will watch more of Rugby!

[@E.P.1]

I am learning to enjoy both. I like watching the Union teams in New Zealand , but I can't stop watching NRL in Oz! This is coming from a die hard American football fan. Rugby is badass!

[@NinhLyUK]

E.P. Thanks for the comments! Yes, In Australia, they like their Rugby League, but in New Zealand - Union is king. But I'm glad you enjoy both of these sports! Be sure to share this video and subscribe :)

[@LomuHabana]

Try AFL, has some elements of Rugby too, but in terms of gameplay and tactics more like soccer.

[@AbdulKareemAbdulRahman]

great summary! thanks. It all comes down to how they deal with tackles. amazing

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks man!

[@knicksprop]

I've been playing rugby union for quite a while but I am giving rugby league a shot. This is very informative. Thank you.

[@NinhLyUK]

Any time! Rugby League is a completely different ball game. It's a simpler concept to grasp and I think you'll do very well. Thanks for your comments! :)

[@mattwalton4858]

After playing both, I have to say that union is better. This is because I love the rucks and mauls, I also thing that they add to the game and the overall complexity makes the sport better. I have to disagree though, in the video you said that league player refer union players to be "people who can't take a hit" when in league all you do is run and get tackled. When in union after you tackle there is (in basic terms) a huge dangerous bundle. Surely that means that league players can't take the hit?! That's my OPINION anyway!

[@NinhLyUK]

+Matt Walton That's the comment that stereotypical League players and fans generally come out and not necessarily my own personal opinion. I don't necessary believe Union fans when they say that League players are too stupid to learn Rugby Union rules either, but that is the stereotype. Thanks for stopping by, be sure to share this video and subscribe :)

[@James-hm3jk]

Matt Walton Your OPINION is right ☺️

[@lukekennedy7734]

In union when you run off a scrum/ruck/maul majority of the time your running off a flat line with somebody stood on your toes unable to really gain any momentum, break a line or gain any speed. THat's the reason forwards off a ruck hit the deck to gain a quick play (pick and drive) so they can create the opportunity to ship the ball out wide. Ruck/mauls aren't dangerous, In league when running into a defensive line 10yard back from the play the ball you have the opportunity to pick up pace and hit the line at top speed (that's dangerous)... Each hit up at the line is a big collision and the play the balls are fast trying to catch the defence on the backfoot/offside. So to summerise league isn't stop and start neither of them are slow paced.. It depends on the situation within the game and also the level you are playing at and also the position your playing. I've played both at a decently high level and both have there pros and cons. Some union games are super slow and boring, some league games are slow and boring but regardless there both great games where someone has there own personal preference. Sorry for been boring.

[@JalanSalur]

typical yawnion wanker

[@samwilkinson2534]

The reason that's said is because in league you run straight at someone, take a hit and can play the ball. But in union, you take it low then turn, which restricts the hits they can do

[@Terinije]

Not going to lie, I've had almost zero exposure to League, so this was helpful. My exposure to Union has been much higher, so that's what I prefer for now. Definitely would be down for giving League a try. Prefer Aussie Rules overall, though.

[@NinhLyUK]

+Terinije Cool, I'm glad that this video helped. I also made one on Aussie Rules too! Be sure to share this video and subscribe :)

[@danpalmer4820]

I'm an American who enjoys both. I watch the NRL and the Aviva Premiership. Apples and oranges.

[@NinhLyUK]

Yes, they really are that different. And I enjoy watching both too. Thanks for stopping by.

[@JaKeL13]

Good video. Liked how there was little to no bias. I'm a league man, but will happily watch a GOOD game of union. The games in the most recent world cup were entertaining, I liked that the ref's held off the whistle a bit. Totally agree that it would be easier for someone from the USA to watch (and understand) a game of league as opposed to a game of union. Also, I liked how you acknowledged the fitness of league players and the tactics of union.

[@crinsombone5380]

From the way you described it, it sounds like League would be open to more complexities and strategies since you have to think about your movement more and prepare for tackles ahead of time.

[@NinhLyUK]

Yes absolutely! Rugby League is becoming more like American Football in that rehearsed/set plays are practiced to try and expose the other team. Wigan Warriors have been doing it for years and now other teams have cottoned on, and are doing the same. It makes for an interesting game ... if you know what you're looking for. Thanks for stopping by.

[@LomuHabana]

That is not what usually happens, players often opt for running into contact to gain simple meters, especially when they are far away from the try line, only at the end of each set players have to really think about their next move, but from my point of view, League is much more based on intuition than a game like American football. Creative backs see an opportunity and act on it. Union is far more tactical overall.

[@cnn8420]

Thanks for the video explaining the differences between Rugby Union and Rugby League. I'm living in Toronto and new to the sport. Go Wolfpack!

[@renefajardo2290]

The NRL has higher attendance figures than the premiership, so I think there is definitely a debate to be had in which sport is actually more popular.

[@22sweetaz]

I've played both codes before (being from NZ) and you definitely need to be fitter for rugby union. The ball is constantly in motion, there are more kicks to chase and every breakdown is contested. When there are scrums in union, forwards don't get to take a break like league players do, Union players actually have to push. In league, there are more interchanges allowed to take the big boys off to have a break. Also when league players run up and take a hit, they just drift out to wing and wait for the ball to come there way again. Union players have to hunt for possession and earn the ball by stealing it at the breakdown or winning the contest at scrums and lineouts. HOWEVER Rugby league has a lot of big hits, mainly because players are trained to tackle high and make ball and all tackles, so league players do suffer larger impacts. but both games are awesome, love them both, both are much better than soccer.

[@shed2211]

Pretty obvious you need to have all round better fitness for league. From my own uni experience union players are built like tanks, league players are built like athletes.

[@ministryOFmuff]

The workrate in league is far higher than in union and the pace is much more relentless.

[@22sweetaz]

Blackbriar uhm... you can't have played against or with decent rugby union players then because if you jump on the field against some of the boys I play against you'll get split in half... not saying that league players aren't solid... there just requires a higher level of endurance and fitness and skill in union than league. every time the forwards in league take a hit up they wonder over to the wing and have a quick breather whereas you gotta clean out and contest for the ball in union.

[@22sweetaz]

***** uummmmmm.... no its not. you clearly have not played union before. it does not give you as much opportunity to breathe like league does.

[@iain8597]

22sweetaz I agree

[@mikeh.2713]

this video helped a LOT i know the rules of rugby hunion but i watched a rugby league game but had no clue why they went to six tackles. if you like a fast paced game rugby 7s is really fun to watch

[@TheDradge]

I travelled over 40,000 miles watching rugby league in 2018 (my record year watching the sport). I just got back to the US from England having watched 5 Super League games including the Saints v Wigan derby. League all the way for me. The greatest game/sport of all without any doubt.

[@skater10153]

I love league, but I prefer Union. I like the strategic aspect of Rugby Union. Yet League is great, love the NRL (GO ROOSTERS). But I'd I'm more attracted to Union. Yet this was a great video!

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks very much! That's cool man, everyone's entitled to an opinion and I know a lot of people watching this video will prefer Union to League. In fact, I think a significant percentage prefers Union, but it doesn't make League any less special. Be sure to subscribe and share this video :)

[@wppowppo]

As an American who plays rugby in college I’d say union

[@NinhLyUK]

Fair enough, each to their own I guess.

[@fins6191]

Obviously.you would if you've never played league. League is faster and more physically skillful, it helps having a down count to keep the ball moving.

[@Lucadi0]

Real nice toturial, i've played both and everything you say is like I experienced! :) I think I like Union better but the rucks and scrum can sometimes be a pain in the buttocks.

[@ivanprivi9996]

Thank you! I am from Argentina a country of rugby union and this video was very clear. Saludos!

[@vapemonster8126]

i am primarily a rugby union guy but i love all rugby this really help because i was watching NRL and was like why is there no rucking? but this video helped so much

[@NinhLyUK]

Vape Monster Nice one! I'm glad this helped you out a lot. Thanks very much for taking the time to comment, be sure to share this video and subscribe :)

[@NicholasMew]

Thanks to the Toronto Wolfpack I've only recently become familiar with rugby league, having previously been a supporter of rugby union since the 80s. I like both sports, and I find the continued argument between the two as to which is 'better' to be petty, childish, and a detriment to both. Keep that rivalry and animosity out of Canada, please, so that we can continue to enjoy both codes here.

[@NinhLyUK]

Very well said. I did mention this in my comments and countless times to many commenters. They are both different sports and each have their own merits and I find the vast majority of the narrow-minded comments tend to come from Union fans who dislike League without giving it 2 minutes of effort to study or watch it.

[@ricardosoto5770]

I hope brits, french and australians learn think the same way. It does not help Rugby in general keeping that feud.

[@dariusmoshtaghi9773]

As an Aussie who loves both codes (but prefers league) hate the petty shit between both codes. They’re both fantastic sports and don’t get why some people constantly shits on the code opposite of one they prefer.

[@mendiak2896]

Freaking perfect i am Aussie and this sums it up perfectly, and ironically Rugby Union is more popular here in the southern end while the Northern states of Australia are more league based. I am a Union player.

[@NinhLyUK]

Hi Isaac. Thank you very much for your kind comments! You know what? I didn't know that about Australia! I assumed that Rugby League and Rugby Union co-existed peacefully over there, with the NRL being slightly more popular. I had no idea that they also have some kind of territorial split?! I guess you learn something new every day! If you could help me share this video, that would be much appreciated. Cheers Isaac!

[@MehSwiftsofresh]

Ninh Ly Yea mate nice video. Its quite surprising that the history is quite similar to the way league was created in Australia. Yea its sort of a territorial split when a single state has 10 out of the 16 teams.

[@NinhLyUK]

Meh Swift I am so surprised that the similarities happen halfway across the world! I live 10 miles away from the Wigan Warriors (Rugby League) and am an avid supporter. I used to date a girl who lived in the south of England, and they'd not even heard of Rugby League, let alone play it! Thanks for the comments! Please share.

[@yorstex]

Ninh Ly While in the south and west of Aus union is more popular than league, this is essentially because league has rarely had teams in the states (apart from one in Victoria for 20 years, and the Western Reds and Adelaide Rams for a couple years, the latter two both now defunct). However, in Australia it is essentially Australian football versus rugby league for the number one sport. If you google the barassi line, it essentially shows you the territorial split of NRL and AFL

[@yorstex]

Ninh Ly So yeah, rugby union is the most popular football code nowhere in Australia. It is pretty much just AFL and NRL, and it's even extremely rare to find any places where association football is more popular than both. I am sure that's a concept that rugby fans of either code could only dream for in England haha

[@rieskame]

I cant wait till I see my first rugby game in 2 weeks at the NRL final! I guess I like checkers...

[@NinhLyUK]

Cool, glad this video helps! Check out my channel for more like this :)

[@tylersherwood7074]

I play Rugby for my high school and I just found out that it's Rugby Union. Very informational video. Good job

[@iansmith5911]

As an American I’ve got to say the slander was not necessary. I am here watching this video because I didn’t know rugby league existed. the game we play over here uses union rules so that’s all I was familiar with.

[@AfricanPuppy]

😂

[@loganhall368]

American here. The first match I watched was Union and after watching League, I prefer Union.

[@rehpotsirhic]

I prefer union over league, as I personally find it more interesting to watch due to its more strategic approach.

[@idontremembermylogin]

Yeah mate just boot the ball up in the air and wait for the other team to boot it back immediately, insane tactics, all the international teams do it.

[@Trajan2401]

Yeah league is too one dimensional constant hit ups then kick same thing over and over and you don't have to fight for possession either which is half the fun I like league too but prefer union as it has more variety to it..

[@NT-fb6ow]

Good video despite the slight bias towards league (which you are of course entitled to) however I dispute the idea that you have to be fitter to play league. Rucks and contest for the ball are incredibly tiring, after making a carry or tackle in union you have to fight to get the ball back or to try and steal it, in league you just lie on the guy for a second or two and he stands up and puts it through his legs. Also league has much less lateral movement. Also in league there is no need for support play for the most part, a guy can carry by himself while all his team mates just wait for the next phase, in rugby at least 2 or 3 players need to be right there with him or the ball will be turned over. Also in Union scrums and lineouts are contested so there is no real break there.

[@NinhLyUK]

Hi Ben. Thanks for the comment on the video. As mentioned to another user: this video was not intended to be biased towards League or biased against Union. It's no secret that I prefer League, but I don't make any incredulous or derogatory claims or comments about Union. When I said fitter: I meant more cardiovascular endurance. Rugby League players have to run more due to the nature of the rules and that the ball is also 'in play' for more time. This has actually been proven by Sky Sports in their many Union vs League debates. As I said to one guy: a Union player will always win on power and strength and a League player on speed and stamina. I don't necessarily disagree with any of your points, especially if I was skewed towards Union. But I've heard all these before, mainly from Union fans and mainly from those who have never watched or played League any longer than 10 minutes. I hope you don't fit that description? The only thing I respectfully disagree with is the 'less lateral movement in League'. Unfortunately to win games in League, you have to get it to your backs on both sides of the pitch as they pull in the majority of your points. Lateral movement is key! In my opinion, these are completely different sports and one is not better than the other. Cheers :)

[@Kongo-Slade007]

and also most league forwards dont play fulltime they got the system of inter changes which basically is like a time out and rest and than come back in ,union they might be big and chunky but marjority of the the time they finish the whole game ,i prefer union because in almost every aspect of the game the ball is contested over

[@ricardosoto5770]

Also the differnces in fitness used to be in part due to League being a profesional game from the beginning and Union used to be amateur. Now that Union has gone pro, the gap has being closed.

[@eleanorclub]

This was so helpful and clear - and I'm a rank rugby rookie. After watching Union rugby vids, saw the difference immediately in the Bath-Wigan contest (under League rules). Poor Union guys we're dragging 😂

[@thewielloyd988]

For context, that game was at a time when Rugby League had been professional for a long time and Union was just starting to transition into professionalism. So the Leaguies were training full time and the Union players were doing it after work. Hence the stark difference in fitness.

[@der522er]

Just started to watch Rugby this World cup and you Video was really helpful to understand both Sports! Thanks.

[@NinhLyUK]

+der522er You're welcome, I'm glad this video helped! I have separate videos of both the rules of Rugby League and the rules of Rugby Union. Be sure to check them out, share and subscribe :)

[@JalanSalur]

both codes have world cups? which one do you mean???

[@thijsvanderzouwen9783]

Briliant video. Useful and entertaining. Just one minor point of nitpicking: George W. Bush might be an idiot, but he'll probable understand the rules of rugby union.... He used to play it.

[@NinhLyUK]

I know, right?! Someone else pointed that out to me yesterday! I had no idea that George W played Rugby Union (and was quite good at it apparently). Go figure! Thanks for the comments Thijs, be sure to share and subscribe! :)

[@michaelfarrow5817]

Ninh Ly George W was apparently a second row, Clinton too. It's what you play at certain colleges when you're keen at sport but a bit crap.

[@NinhLyUK]

George W Bush was a second rower?! Now that's bloody hilarious!! Thanks for making my day with that rather bemusing fact!

[@jessiecorden234]

Ninh Ly that's the politest way to say lol

[@NinhLyUK]

Jessie Corden I just couldn't imagine good ol' George W being some hulking second rower and being the main pusher in a scrum. Still boggling the mind!

[@derekperry1745]

Rugby Union is the far superior league in my honest opinion. I like and watch both, but I massively prefer to watch Rugby Union as it, at least to me seems more competitive, physical, entertaining and unpredictable. I happen to be an American by the way!

[@NinhLyUK]

Meh, each to their own I guess. It is the more popular version of Rugby out there. Rugby Sevens is a compromise between the two ... it plays like both.

[@derekperry1745]

+ Ninh Ly -- As with most things, it is purely objective. I should have lead with that-- anyway I like rugby sevens as well. Great channel by the way!

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks Derek, appreciate that!

[@tomwhite4]

That history part was surprising uses ful and amazing thank you for including that I prefer league btw

[@NinhLyUK]

No worries, glad you like this video.

[@bensimpson9175]

Thanks for the quality video and balanced information. Cleared it up for me.

[@NinhLyUK]

+Ben Simpson You're welcome Ben, I'm glad this video helped you understand the difference between Rugby League and Rugby Union. Be sure to share this video and subscribe :)

[@davidtaliai996]

live in AUS and grew up playing league, played rugby for a couple of years and having a league background does help when you play the other game especially in defense and fitness.

[@NinhLyUK]

I agree with that. You'll find that League players have the skillset to transfer to Union, but I've not seen many cases where the opposite has happened. Except for Sonny Bill Williams that guy is immense.

[@Finnandfletch]

@@NinhLyUK That's because no-one wants to go from Rugby to League. Like going from Business to Economy Class. Playing rugby you could play in Tokyo, Buenos Aires, Paris, Rome, Dublin or Cape Town. In league its Leeds, Auckland, Canberra. It is amazing watching these amazing league defenders struggle in rugby - Lote Tuquiri said it was because you never knew where a player was going to come from in rugby but in League they always came from the line moving forward. Any great league or rugby player would be able to adapt to either game but there are differences in the sports so some are more suited to rugby and some more suited to league.

[@shakes.dontknowwhatyergettin]

Basically: take Union, remove 75% of the game, now you have League.

[@NoName-hg6cc]

Basically 😂

[@StoatyFox]

"Fat public schoolboys who can't take a hit" That made me LOL! Nice vid, btw!

[@NinhLyUK]

+StoatyFox Thanks for the comment! The 'fat public schoolboys' comment isn't my own personal opinion of course, but that's the stereotype. Be sure to share this video and subscribe :)

[@flackonw7374]

Great video, for me Union is "better", congrats from Brazil

[@NinhLyUK]

+Anderson Ferreira Thanks man, I'm glad you like this video and Union is a good sport to play and watch! Be sure to share this video and subscribe :)

[@macflow14]

Brazil me gusta

[@Heath580]

I'm an American who spent a student exchange in Australia and so i prefer League simply by exposure. Also I'm not that big and I'm pretty fast so I can picture myself playing League, but not Union

[@matthewforeman4229]

Hey Ninth, Really good video mate. Balanced and generally fair with a tad of humour. The only thing I'll point out is Australia isnt the only country in the world where Rugby League is more popular than Rugby Union. Papua New Guinea's national sport is actually Rugby League.

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks for the comment Matthew! Yes you're right. PNG's national sport is indeed Rugby League. When I mentioned the fact about Australia - I was thinking more in the lines of "it's more popular from a commercial and professional standpoint compared to Rugby Union". In PNG - it's pretty much the only game in town, so I couldn't make the same comparison! Thanks again, make sure you share this vid and check out some of my other ones!

[@pupikpupik4252]

@@NinhLyUK Cook Islands as well

[@winstontimmermans7816]

great video. but I have to say, although union does have more complicated rules, the gameplay is certainly not more technical and strategic than league.. I would argue that league possibly requires more strategy, given the constraints of only 6 tackles.

[@NinhLyUK]

Hi Winston. Thanks for the comment on this video. I can see where you're coming from. I've always said that 'Rugby League is more like American Football than it is Rugby Union' so your comments are truer than you think. For any average joe: there's a lot more to think about when watching a game of Union and it's certainly a lot more complicated to understand, which is why (for a normal spectator) that Rugby Union seems to be more tactically minded. I'm sure any NRL coach would disagree with me of course! Thanks for the share on this video! :)

[@winstontimmermans7816]

I totally agree. I just moved to USA from Australia (where I used to play league) and I looked up this video because I was considering joining a Union team (since they don't have league). But between the constant contested scrummage and no tackle count, it's hard to think about making the switch.. Have you played both? and which do you prefer actually playing?

[@NinhLyUK]

Winston Timmermans Hello again Winston! Yes I have played both codes of Rugby. I played at hooker in both, and as a Union hooker, there was a lot more to think about tactically. But it wasn't any less fun as a result of it. Having said that, I always lived in the North of England, where League is king - so I generally prefer Rugby League, although I do like playing or watching Union on the odd occasion. My advice is, if you can find a Union team, give it a go. If not, try American Football as this is similar to League. You never know, you might be quite good at both of them! Hope that helps?

[@winstontimmermans7816]

Awesome. Thanks

[@NinhLyUK]

Winston Timmermans Anytime Winston. Feel free to ask any more questions if you need help. :)

[@SoupySpirit]

I prefer Union over League only because I like it when a sport has a strategic side like American football. Oddly enough I live near Manchester, so it's a rugby league kind of town here. GO SALE SHARKS and GO SALFORD RED DEVILS!

[@NinhLyUK]

+Spirit of Soup Yeah, Union is a cool sport, so I see the point of view from Unions fans as to why they prefer their sport. I prefer League personally but each to their own I guess. And as a League fan, I'm perplexed as to why the Red Devils suck so badly with that much money and resources. Good job I'm a Wigan fan. Thanks for stopping by, be sure to share this video and subscribe :)

[@SoupySpirit]

+Ninh Ly Bad upper management is the reason behind our terrible play. I hope we can just avoid relegation in the Super 8 Qualifiers. Anybody, but Leeds can win the Super League and I will be happy.

[@NinhLyUK]

That we can agree on ... bad upper management (i.e. the good doctor) and anybody but Leeds and Saints for the Grand Final!

[@JonB1995]

+Spirit of Soup have you ever watched rugby league? teams don't just play without a strategy. league and union are both strategic games.

[@SoupySpirit]

Jonathan 999 I know, but Union has the slow build up to a try like a checkmate in chess, while League is like checkers where "king me" happens quickly and often. I have never been to a League match where the tries aren't scored often.

[@johnoconnell8609]

Extremely helpful and entertaining to boot! Thank you very much sir. I played Union in high school in the States, and my goodness the rules were so complex. But it was and is an infinitely more fun sport than our own brand of football.

[@NinhLyUK]

+John O'Connell Cool, thanks John! I'm glad this video helped you understand the rules of Rugby League and Rugby Union. I actually have dedicated videos for each sport, so have a look on my videos page. Be sure to share this video and subscribe :)

[@mattregan3394]

As an American trying to master the rules of rugby (union, that is), this was extremely helpful. Thanks very much.

[@NinhLyUK]

+Matt Regan Cheers Matt, I appreciate the comment! Be sure to share and subscribe :)

[@TheSmart-CasualGamer]

I am here for two reasons. 1. I am Welsh, so even though I don't really have any attachment to any sport, this stuff is in my blood, can't help it. 2. This video was cited in a video about fighting games for why Super Smash Brothers Melee players and Super Smash Brothers 4 players don't get along. It's basically the same as Rugby League and Rugby Union. Although what that makes Brawl I have no idea... There seems to be good points to both. Though there's no rucks and pile-ins, which is just WEIRD to me, the scoring system makes way more sense. I still have no clue why over-the-bar kicks are 3pts.

[@jab767]

When highlighting Yorkshire they only highlighted north Yorkshire

[@NinhLyUK]

Yeah, I only noticed that when I uploaded it! I highlighted modern day Lancashire and North Yorkshire only and didn't include the other Yorkshires. I also missed out Cumbria, Merseyside and Greater Manchester (which would have been old Lancashire at the time). Fortunately, you're the only person that noticed :)

[@SweeneyDDTo]

Rucking is sooooooo much fun though

[@ajblowers]

George W. Bush used as the picture to show an American not understanding Union? He played Full Back!

[@NinhLyUK]

Aaron Blowers I didn't actually know that until another member pointed out that he played fullback at Yale! If I'd had known that, I woulda put Sarah Palin in instead! Thanks for the comment - be sure to share and subscribe :)

[@timiaconis5277]

I'm a league fan...great video

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks bro, check out my channel for more videos like this :)

[@JustanApple96]

Thanks for the video, mate. Although I am coming from a Canadian & American Football background, I do enjoy Rugby Union quite a bit. As for the blokes arguing about League vs Union, we can all agree that Rugby in general is better than soccer (football).

[@NinhLyUK]

It's all relative. If everyone all liked the same sports, there'd only be one or two of them in the world, because the rest of them would go out of business. I think each person has their own preference to which sports are better or worse, but they are mainly just opinions.

[@ratedpending]

oops no we can't I'm goin to the revs vs philly union game lol

[@quirkyquokka7569]

I'm a fan of both, but why does league seem more interesting to watch?

[@NinhLyUK]

The ball is in play more in league I think is the easiest answer. But there's many different merits of both kinds. Thanks for the comments, be sure to share this video and subscribe :)

[@Wakefull17]

CGP Grey inspired vid?

[@NinhLyUK]

Wakefull17 Can you tell!? Yes, it was a nod to CGP Grey and his cool videos. I actually sent him a link to it - but he didn't reply and I think I just got a dislike in return. Hmmm, never mind eh? Thanks for stopping by, be sure to share this video and subscribe :)

[@bulldogsbob]

You're right about rugby league being similar to American football but rugby union is kinda boring but that is a matter of taste good video.

[@NinhLyUK]

+bulldogsbob Each to their own. I don't mind both, but I prefer League because it's so similar to American football. Thanks again! :)

[@SomeBritishGal1]

I like both League and Union, but I prefer to watch League. Rugby League is similar to Football, as it's a much faster paced game, so I prefer it. Keeps me hooked.

[@fergusmacleod9540]

I've acctuly went to a union and a league match and I can honestly say Union fans are by far the best I also support Glasgow Warriors but love American football I acctuly play for a team called Glasgow tigers

[@AshTrizey]

I used to play union in high school but I prefer watching league specifically NRL. I forgot the difference and this video refreshed my memory. Thanks!

[@yanguskhan8513]

as someone who is just learning to enjoy rugby, this was a very helpful video.

[@NinhLyUK]

Thanks bro, much appreciated! For a much more detailed video on each, check out Rugby Union: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qZ7RpoWeg9mHaKc&vl Rugby League: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rHfaead8f8alnqc