• Scoring and Restart: A goal is scored when the ball crosses completely between the opponent’s goal posts. After each goal, teams switch ends. Then play resumes with a throw‑in at the center of the field.

​

• Right of Way & Safety: The “line of the ball”  the imaginary line along which the ball travels defines who has the right of way. The player on this line generally has priority. Violating this rule (e.g. crossing dangerously in front of the ball’s path) can result in a foul.

​

• Fouls and Dangerous Riding: Foul calls may be given for unsafe riding, dangerous angles when “riding off,” crossing the line of the ball in a risky manner, or misuse of the stick/mallet.

​

• Penalties: Depending on the severity and location of the foul, different penalty types are awarded. Some common ones:

  • Penalty 1 - If a dangerous foul or deliberate foul occurs near the goal to prevent a probable goal, the fouled team may be awarded an automatic goal. 

  • Penalty 2 - Free hit from 30 yards (undefended goal). 

  • Penalty 3 - Free hit from 40 yards (undefended). 

  • Penalty 4 - Free hit from 60 yards (defended goal). 

  • Penalty 5 - Free hit from the spot of the foul or from the center of the field. 

  • “Safety” / Defensive Fault  If a defending side hits the ball over their own back‑line, it results in a penalty hit (often from 60 yards, taken opposite to where the ball crossed). 

​

• Umpires & Enforcement: Mounted umpires follow play to call fouls, enforce penalties, and ensure both player and horse safety. Their decisions govern free hits or penalty goals, and they manage proper execution (e.g. defending players must remain behind back‑lines, minimum distance rules before a penalty hit).