J
Jay
Guest
Hindmost feet and 'the gate' are not really the same thing though they tend to be used interchangeably.
The 'gate' really only applies in a tackle situation, whereby anyone entering the tackle must do so from directly behind the hindmost part of the tackler/tackled player. In a ruck they must merely enter from behind (note, not directly behind). It's the use of the word directly in the tackle situation that creates the gate, as it is a narrow channel - I suppose a ruck could be said to have a gate, but it would be more accurately described as a funnel.
One thing I noticed Horwill doing last night (and I've seen Richie do this too) is to the tackle but not get to this feet immediately, instead waiting until the support players have blown over the top. If the team-mates haven't engaged the support players (hence no ruck) they're then able to play the ball. It's very canny play - they can't get cleaned out cause they're still on the deck and if there is no second wave of supporting players clearing out, they get a free crack at the ball.