Following detailed analysis and consultations, the RFL Match Officials department has introduced a new on-field policy for referees when a penalty goal is being taken during a game.

With immediate effect, all referees will position themselves at the side of the player taking the kick at goal.

This will allow the referee an improved view of the chasers in order to check if any have encroached into off-side positions.

The referee will then move behind the kicker as the ball is kicked in order to follow its flight and trajectory towards the posts.

Commenting on the change, the RFL's match officials director Stuart Cummings said: "The RFL Match Officials department has a policy of continuous improvement and all matches are analysed in detail after each week of competition.

"We will make modifications and amendments to existing on-field policies if we feel there is a need for improvement and we feel there is a definite benefit in this case.

"The full time environment for elite referees and the resource offered by our new administration base will greatly assist the process of implementing this change."

Cummings also has confirmed that he and his colleagues are involved in ongoing discussions regarding the potential of a new policy of referring ALL 'match winning'tries scored at the conclusion of games to the video referee for immediate review.

Clubs and coaches will also be consulted as part of this process.

Cummings added: "We are currently discussing the merits of sending match winning tries scored in the closing minutes of a game to the video referee as a matter of course.

"The precise details, definitions and framework for this are still the subject of ongoing discussions and consultation."

"We will release more details if and when it is appropriate."