challenge

To keep scoring as the pressure builds.

set up

An 8m by 5m box (or larger, depending on your players), with four cones about two steps in from each corner.

how to play it

Five attackers start in the middle of the box, with three defenders around the edges, and two more about 5m from the outside. The defenders inside can move anywhere, but are not allowed to intercept the ball. The attackers can pass and run in any direction. They score on the outside of the box – and, if they do, they pass back in to the middle. Every time the attackers score, another defender enters the box. If a defender touches an attacker within two steps of the try line, the attacker has to pass back into the middle box. The defender cannot make touches inside the middle box.Give the attack one minute to score three times.

coaching points

• Defenders can only be effective on the edges of the box. Do they step through the box to cover, or stay around the edges? Do they follow the ball?
• Attackers need to keep the ball moving quickly. Do they do this with passes, pass and move or just movement?

• Defenders can move through the middle box but cannot interfere with play
• The attackers inside the box can run and pass
• Two defenders wait outside the large box

• Defenders aim to touch the ball carrier before they score
• A ball carrier aims to touch down the ball before they are touched

• After a touch or try, the ball is moved back into the main box
• If a try is scored, another defender enters the arena
• The attack has one minute to score three times