EXPERT SESSIONS AND ADVICE FROM QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED GRASSROOTS RUGBY COACHES
Rugby attack patterns are used to get your players to make the most of the attacking opportunities that come their way during a game. In these attacking drills I look at ways to create chances for your attackers, rugby games that will sharpen their reactions near the try line, and tips on how to coach your attackers to be try-machines.
in Attack, Practice plans
Work on improving player timing and realignment by forcing players to begin a phase from a static start. Though many drills start in this way, you want to emphasise the stationary position. This will activate the mind because players will be thinking ahead. This might sort the more astute from the tactically less aware. MORE
in Attack, Rugby drills
There are times when you want maximum participation for a small unit skill. Here, you can use lots of small boxes to play fixing games with 2 v 1 situations. You can move easily around the boxes, observing and feeding back. MORE
in Attack, Rugby drills, Small-sided games
The attackers recover ball bounced into the space and then attack. They lose if caught in possession, drop the ball or even worse, let it out of the bigger box. MORE
in Attack, Contact, Practice plans
A player who is flat does not have a good chance of generating much speed to take the ball on - such as when gathering the ball from a ruck. Therefore they have to make best use of the available space. There are two key elements: Taking the pass in a way that does not compromise the player while not providing an easy target for a tackler. MORE
A tip pass is a short flat pass where the passer can immediately support the receiver as they go into contact. It can unbalance the defence because of the change of focus and helps dent the defence. Creating 2 v1 mismatches is just as effective in close as in space. The power of two is a powerful weapon. MORE
in Attack, Backs moves, Practice plans
The second receiver from a ruck or set piece needs to act as a ballcarrying option or a support player for close contact in the 10 channel. The 12 (inside centre) is the most likely player for this. This session works on key options so they become second nature. MORE
in Attack, Passing & Handling, Practice plans
Develop long passing for specific plays. This session works on running lines and timing as well as improving accuracy of passing in match-like situations. You should be able to run these throughout the season, making this an essential session. MORE
in Attack, Contact, Practice plans
This is a tough, physical session that works on players going forward in narrow spaces. The emphasis should be on ball retention in contact, with players using footwork to get to the edges of defenders while going forward. If their progress is stopped, they should recycle and attack the next space. MORE
in Attack, Rugby drills, Small-sided games
“An attacker picks up a rolling ball under pressure and then decides whether to pass or run to keep the play going forward.” MORE
in Attack, Rugby drills, Small-sided games
“An attacker and defender run unusual running lines, which map out an R, to create a dynamic 1 v 1 which gives a chance for the attacker to attempt to step inside or outflank the defender” MORE
