A push in the back (colloquially "in the back") is a free kick awarded in Australian rules football against a player who illegally tackles or interferes with a player from behind when contesting possession.
The rule is applied in two different circumstances: in tackling and marking contests.
While it was widely introduced in 1897, the rule is as almost old as the sport with its necessity to ensure the safety of players having been debated since 1860.[1][2]
- ^ "Tuesday, May 29, 1860". Argus (Melbourne, Vic.: 1848–1957). 29 May 1860. p. 4. Retrieved 1 October 2019.
- ^ "Football". Bell's Life in Victoria and Sporting Chronicle (Melbourne, Vic.: 1857–1868). 2 June 1860. p. 4. Retrieved 1 October 2019.
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