The jackal is one of the most influential contests in the game — and one of the most difficult to referee consistently. Understanding what good looks like, and what constitutes an infringement, is essential.

In this video, Ben O’Keeffe breaks down the key principles of the jackal, focusing on the positive actions that should be rewarded, as well as the negative actions that lead to penalties. You’ll learn how to recognise a strong, legal contest for the ball and how to identify when it breaks down.

This session covers:

• What defines a legal jackal

• Positive actions: strong position, supporting body weight, clear lift on the ball

• Negative actions: off feet, no clear release, hands on the ground first

• How to assess arriving players and pressure on the jackal

• Positioning and sight lines to make accurate decisions

Designed to simplify one of the most complex areas of the breakdown, this provides a clear framework for making confident, consistent calls.