Realign fast, attack hard
in Attack, Passing & Handling, Rugby drills
If you win quick ruck ball you want your backs into position quickly to exploit any spaces. Here’s how to work in threes and find the gaps… MORE
Decision-making in the tackle
in Defence, Rugby drills, Tackling
The type of tackle a defender might use depends on the space either side of him. Practise this activity to work on the defender’s decision-making in the set-up, footwork and tackle execution. MORE
Tackle reaction
in Defence, Rugby drills
Coming in the defensive line at speed needs the players to react to possible changes in angles by attackers or late entry into the line. Use this activity to work on awareness and footwork… Good line speed tends to increase pressure on the attack but it can cause problems for the defenders unless they can react quickly to last moment changes in the attackers. This activity keeps defenders on their toes and moving forward MORE
Attack the inside edge
When the 9 runs, it creates an extra player in the line. So exploit that to create gaps between the opposition 10 and open-side flanker at the scrum. This play should be used from a left-side scrum. MORE
VIDEO: Tactical analysis of blitz at the breakdown
An aggressive ruck defence system can put instant pressure on the opposition by targeting the first receiver. Watch Sean Holley talk through his “King drill” and then put his idea into practice… MORE
Quick hands competition
in Passing & Handling, Rugby drills, Small-sided games
Pit forwards against the backs in this exercise to develop straight running and quick handling. It puts your players’ skills under pressure and the session can be adapted to suit groups of any size. MORE
Buster ball from quick rucks
in Attack, Rugby drills
When you dent their line and win a quick ruck, it pays to have a play in your locker to make a decisive break while they’re recovering their shape. Have your 9 run off the forwards with this “loop and give”. MORE
3 simple counter plays
in Kicking & Catching, Rugby drills
Work on counter-attack plays to use when returning long kicks. And then have a play to use after the first ruck from a counter – it will help you exploit weak links as they race into place to defend. MORE
Switch on to tap and go
in Attack
Although a “tap and go” by the 9 is off the cuff, players will benefit from some structure to make the most of opportunities. Use this session to get your team in the mindset of quick plays from penalties. MORE
Kick attack options
in Rugby drills
Use this drill to vary the kicking tactics for a flat or deep 10. It will help him target the right areas to kick to, and improve his reading of the defence and decision-making about whether to pass or kick. MORE
