Ashton angles

Though Chris Ashton was not the first to exploit an inside run to take a pass from the first or second receiver, it is still a surprise attacking weapon. If the defence covers his run, this creates gaps elsewhere. This session develops timing, running lines and passing skills involved.

Warm up time: 5
Session time: 6-9
Development time: 6-9
Game time: 15-20
Warm down time: 7

What to think about

The manoeuvre works if the inside runner arrives late and quick. If he hovers too close to the first receiver, he is likely to be marked and the element of surprise is lost. Though the running line and timing is quite hard, the inside pass can be a problem for many players. Normally the 10, who makes the pass, drifts out before he passes. He can, like for instance Quade Cooper, choose to cut inside, so being able to see the intended recipient or break the line himself.

set-up

1. Winger: hold your run until you can accelerate on to the pass at the tackle line. Winger: run towards the passer and expect a pass of at least two metres or more.
2. Passer: attack the space, draw out the defenders before delivering the pass. Look to go yourself if the defence step across to take the inside runner.

What you get your players to do

Put two ruck pads holders in the middle of the box and a 9 to the side. Have a 10 run up the box, take a pass and deliver an inside pass to a player who has started outside the box. He must be sprinting when he is inside the box. Develop by changing sides, adjusting the activity of the ruck pad holders and having the final receiver change his starting position.