Good running lines from the set piece mean support players are in a position to offer the best help. It applies to all forwards, but this is a whole team practice, because forwards and backs need to trust each other.

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

What to think about

Moving from set piece work to support play requires a change in mindset. First, the support player has to be part of winning or contesting the set piece, whether it be a scrum or lineout. He then has to switch his focus to the next play. Most teams will have a call on where the ball is likely to go. In this session, most of the support play is close to the set piece. Therefore, it is easy to know where to run and what role to play. Expand the distance between the contact points to challenge the players to change their focus and lines of running.

set-up

1. Win your set piece first and then break, looking to support the ball carrier.
2. Anticipate the contact point and call what you want from the ball carrier.
3. Don’t rush to be in support – wait and then accelerate.

What you get your players to do

Set up three pairs of numbered cones as in the top picture. Put a ball carrier and ruck pad holder opposite each other on one pair of cones. Add an attack and defence supporter to the side of the cones. The ball carrier runs at the ruck pad holder and takes contact. He can either go to ground or drive on. The support players react to the ball carrier’s actions. Play full contact. Change the starting positions. Develop by removing the ruck pad.