Why do australian rugby fans refer to the stand off position as five-eigths.?

Question

Why do australian rugby fans refer to the stand off position as five-eigths.?

Answer 1

From my interpretation is that in Rugby League they are referred to as five-eigths in Rugby Union its stand off or fly half. The reason the were called five-eigths is because they were placed five-eigths of the way between the front row, that is if you had a scrum, and fullback.  Half back is halfway, then five-eigths, then the three quarters and then fullback.

Answer 2

Because thats where there position is on the clock (field)

5 and 8

Answer 3

we have 3/4's, halfs & 5/8s they are the backs . 5 is a wing position, not a 5/8 you tool in first ans. Say what has it right.