Rugby Union

AI summary:

The article explores whether winning a fight on the pitch can help a team achieve victory. Some players believe winning a physical altercation can change the momentum of a match. A famous rugby fight between the Lions and Wallabies in 1989 is cited as an example, with the Lions going on to win the series. Studies of hockey data found that winning fights did not predict momentum shifts or scoring the next goal. However, a judo study found winners of bronze medal matches that followed losses in earlier rounds won 69% of the time, indicating psychological momentum. This effect was only seen in men and likely due to increases in testosterone levels following victory. While fights may energize individual players like in judo, their impact is diluted in team sports. The persistence of the momentum narrative helps fighting players preserve their status despite evidence against its influence. Ultimately, the story we tell ourselves about what shifts momentum is not always correct.