Course
Delay of Game

Why is Delay of Game a Rule

Delay of game was a rule brought in, in an attempt to speed up the game. Players were bringing the ball to a standstill and tapping the ball at walking pace which had the effect of condensing the play into a much smaller area, making the game less appealing to watch and less enjoyable to play.      

How is the Rule of Delay of Game Applied

Delay of game is applied to the offensive player or player in possession of the ball. If they bring their horse to a walk or stop and they’re defended within approximately two horse lengths, then they have five seconds or one tap. After they take that one tap, they must either hit the ball or travel with the ball.     
Procedure of the Delay of Game Rule

The penalty for breaking the delay of game rule is a spot hit to the opposing team. The only exception would be if the violation occurs with the 60 yard line that the team in possession is defending. In this case, a penalty 4 would be awarded to the opposing team. 

When delay of game is called, the game is restarted with a hit to the opposing team. This in effect awards possession to the opposing team without unduly penalising the team in breach of the rule. 

Delay of Game at Different Levels of Polo

Delay of game is interpreted slightly differently at high and low goal levels. The main factors the umpires consider is the speed at which the player is travelling when they have control of the ball and their intention in what they’re attempting to do. For example, if the ball is close to the boards or in a hole, more time will be allowed for the player to dig the ball out and then make a positive play.

The most common error that Fergus noted for a delay of game violation being called, is that players will habitually tap the ball more than once in an effort to set themselves for the next hit. Furthermore, players in situations where they're under pressure will feel the need to tap the ball again to create space or buy themselves time to make the play they want. The best way to mitigate this is to hit the ball first time when arriving to it, or to hit backhands rather than turning the ball into danger. 
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