This session aims to help the ball carrier attract defenders and execute 2v1s. The player runs out, then in, then out, in an S-shape to draw one if not two defenders to create a potential 2v1. There are plenty of opportunities to use this in Sevens.

Warm up time: 5-7
Session time: 8-10
Development time: 10-15
Game time: 10-15
Warm down time: 5-8

What to think about

The S-shape run (introduced by Tosh Askew in International Rugby Coaching), pushes and pulls defenders out of position. By fixing defenders and then running at the gap between them, defenders are forced out of the line to create a gap. The ball carrier needs to run at pace and the pass delivered cannot be not a long one. In Sevens, there is often a chance to run at pace at the defence, with say a 3v3 or 4v4 situation. With an S-shape run, it is possible to create a mini 2v1, as two defenders are drawn out of the line to defend against one attacker.

set-up

1. Run out (drift), then in and then attack the outside shoulder of your defender.
2. Keep square as you reach the tackle line so you can pass the ball either out or in, or go for the gap yourself.
3. Hold your depth in support, knowing the ball carrier will attack the gap between the defenders.

What you get your players to do

Mark out an S-shape with poles and cones. Get a player to run, take a pass, go through the S-shape and then deliver a pass at the end. Ensure he is square and facing up the field as he passes. Get the support player to run on the outside. Then, after this pass is secure, get a support player to run on the inside, so the ball carrier works on both types of pass and support players work on timing (see picture 1).