What do the f a and b stand for in Rugby Union tables?

Question

I understand W L D etc, but I am stumped on the f a and b.

Answer 1

Points For, Points Against, Bonus Points.

Answer 2

f stands for points scored or points FOR.

a stands for points conceded or Against

b is for bonus points, You will find this better explained in the previous answer

The points for and against are of paticular interest this week as the six nations looks likely to be decided on scoring difference.

Scoring difference is the difference between points scored and points conceded. e.g if a team score 100 points and concedes 90 they have a scoring difference of +10.

In actual fact why tables are printed with lists of points for and agianst is a mystery, it would be much simpler for the reader just to include the scoring difference as this is what is significant.

The practice probably stems from the printing of football league tables, In soccer the goals for and against do have more significance as if two teams are tied and have the same scoring difference goals scored count towards final placings. However in rugby if scoring difference is equal it is tries scored that determine final placings.

Answer 3

f = points for, a = points against, b = bonus points

a bonus point is received if a team score 4 tries in a game or a team can also receive a bonus point if they lose a game by 7 points or less