Paul Deacon has backed a new rule change as "good for the game."

From next season, scrum halves will no longer be able to snare opponents offside from scrums.

Currently, the loose forward can keep the ball in the pack allowing his No7 to sell a dummy, enticing opposition to stray.

But under the new rule for 2008, the ball will be in play once it has passed through the second-rowers' feet.

"I know what the RFL are trying to do - stopping sides getting an easy penalty for what probably is gamesmanship," said Bulls scrum half Deacon.

"I've no problem with that whatsoever as it is trying to con a penalty.

"When you look at other sports like golf and snooker, things like that don't exist and it's good that rugby league is trying to eradicate it as well."

Coaches suggested the rule change to RFL match officials director Stuart Cummings.

He conceded tricking opponents into moving offside wasn't a worthy skill' and it will be outlawed next season.

Deacon admitted the Bulls have used the tactic in the past.

"We've done it a few times where I've told the loose forward to keep the ball in his feet," he said.

"If it's in the laws of the game, you're struggling on your own line and you can get a penalty, then why not?

"But that's the exact reason why the RFL are now doing this and I totally understand their point of view.

"It'll be good for the game."

To avoid the mess that can happen at scrum bases in rugby union, the opposition scrum-half must remain at the back of his own loose forward until the ball is cleared.

Meanwhile, the Great Britain star is looking forward to his testimonial game with hometown Wigan on Sunday January 20.

"They've promised to play their full strength side and so have we so that's a great plus for myself and both clubs," Deacon said.

"It'll be a full-on, competitive hit out with Super League just around the corner.

"We'll be looking to head into the league high in confidence and this game should help us do that.

"It should be a great spectacle at Odsal."

Tickets are now on sale at Grattan Stadium priced £10.