http://www.sareferees.com/News/law-discussion-the-caught-kick/2830059/
sarefs take on it.
I don't agree with their editorial. If the "maul after catch" law was deleted it would lead to more garryowens
<chopper>
In the hypothetical case of a kick from defence caught on the half way line.
Ref cannot be sure who took it in.
Maul is not moving forward
Maul straddles the line and ref cannot be certain which half the ball is in.
Who gets the put in?
</chopper>
Camquin
http://www.sareferees.com/News/law-discussion-the-caught-kick/2830059/
sarefs take on it.
I don't agree with their editorial. If the "maul after catch" law was deleted it would lead to more garryowens
<chopper>
In the hypothetical case of a kick from defence caught on the half way line.
Ref cannot be sure who took it in.
Maul is not moving forward
Maul straddles the line and ref cannot be certain which half the ball is in.
Who gets the put in?
</chopper>
Camquin
The Mark was restricted in 1977 (half way) and 1979 (22).I agree. The game would become a never ending festival of kick & chase, with the chasing team knowing that all they need to do is hold the catcher up to get the ball. IIRC, this is why the Law came in the first place. OB.. may have a better idea than me, but from memory, this exception came in some time shortly after the late 1970's when the taking of a Mark was restricted to inside the 22m only.