Stealing Ball

Question
Hi I'm 17 playing flanker. Is it better to close or open your eyes while atemping to steal the ball. I also get shifted to second row sometimes. Is there any advantage of wearing a headgear except protecting your ears at scrumtime?

Answer
Hi Matt, within reason keep your eyes open. You need to be sure you are not fighting a team mate over the ball.

Head gear is a personal choice. Try it out. If you like it wear it if not then don't. It helps stop cuts, bruises and protects your ears but it will not protect against concussion - that is what a mouth guard does.