The length of play is very flexible and determined by the level of play but is usually around an hour to an hour and a half of playing time. The time is divided into two halves, with usually only a 5 minute half time. The length of an official match is two forty minute halves with a 5 minute "halftime". Substitutions or time-outs are not allowed. Play pauses for penalties, scores, when the ball goes out of touch. The game is not stopped for injuries until the ball is out of play. The sir may then choose to award a "minute given" and the team then has a minute to remove the injured player from the pitch (field). Unlike American football, play does not stop with a tackle.

Top 10 Irish Rugby Tries of Six Nations 2007