First person protector

Winning the space over the tackled player is a key factor in winning quick ruck ball or disrupting an opponent’s attacking ball. Reaction training comes from creating slightly unusual positions for players to work from, so they have to make more quick decisions.

Warm up time: 5
Session time: 5-8
Development time: 8-12
Game time: 15-20
Warm down time: 7

What to think about

Along with handling and tackling, the role of the first support player over the ball should be regarded as a core individual skill. Each player should be aware of the best body position to repel oncoming defenders. Ideally he is set like a prop, with arms ready to engage with the opposition, and his body at least over the ball. He should not lean forward to grab the player.

set-up

1. Tackled player: Fight to the ground and present the ball towards your own try line.
2. First support player: Win the race for the space over the ball. Be strong.

What you get your players to do

Put two attackers with a ball facing each other side in the middle of the box and a defender at each side of the box. Shout which try line to attack and the attackers aim to score at this end BUT without passing the ball, with the defenders working to get onside. Stop when there is an infringement or one of the teams has clearly won the contact area. (Adjust starting positions to suit skills.)