Simple ruck defence rules

The first principle of defence is to regain possession by challenging for the ball. If you can, you steal the ball, either by grabbing it in contact, forcing the opposition to kick, or from their mistakes.

Your team do this more effectively if they create pressure. That is, you reduce the time and space for the opposition attack to...attack. Rucks are an ideal time to exert even more pressure because there is a brief pause in the game and your players redefine their roles.

Here are eight ways to shut off the opposition options, create pressure and therefore create opportunities for turnover ball. 

1. Mess with their ball

Slow their ball placement legally, so your ruck defence can get into place. The tackler gets up over the ball and the next defender goes beyond the ball.

2. Counter ruck early if they are isolated

Opponents may form a ruck with small players or fewer numbers because they are isolated (like from a kick ahead) so flood numbers into the ruck.

Do you have a call if a player identifies they can counter ruck?

3. Set your pillars

Posts, guards, or pillars. Whatever you call them it is essential there is a defender each side of the ruck. They set the defensive line.

4. Pump the heart

The pillars are the heart of the defence and the rest of the defenders fill out from there. Make sure they are onside and matching up depending on the attacking shape.

5. First man pick, second man 9

The closest player to the ruck covers a pick and go, the second defender covers the 9.

6. Chop close to the line

When you are close to your own line, your players get very low and chop the ball carrier down quickly (see Sean Holley’s lion-hearted defence activity on page 4). Don’t worry about dominating the tackle, just stop their momentum.

7. Man in the boot

Make sure that there is a player behind the ruck organising. Normally the scrum half, they work out where the defence needs more resources.

8. Fast off, keep solid

The first three players on each side of the ruck must come forward fast and together. They should move forward and not drift out until the ball is well away.

As an antidote to this defensive press, play “Rucking good fun” on page 5.