EXPERT SESSIONS AND ADVICE FROM QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED GRASSROOTS RUGBY COACHES

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Block pass run

by Dan Cottrell in Attack

Use this activity to work on options to attack the line flat or pull the pass back to a player who is running wider into space.

This is a tough decision-making exercise because players have to make late passing decisions, while receivers have to time their runs to find the gaps.

ACTIVITY

  1. Set up four attackers and three ruck-pad holders as in the top picture. Assign letter A to E to each gap.
  2. Put a feeder at the side of the box.

  1. Shout out which gaps the ruck pad holders have to run through. When they move forward, the feeder releases the ball and the attacking team aim to score without contact with the ruck-pad holders.
  2. Adjust the starting distances to offer different pressures.

GAME SITUATION

  1. Split into groups of about 6 or more, mixing forwards and backs. Nominate four attackers to set up. Then nominate three defenders.
  2. As the defenders get into position to cover the field, release the four attackers with a pass from a feeder. It is best to play full contact or scrag tackle.
  3. Adjust by setting up the defenders first, and then having the attackers flow round into the box.

TECHNIQUE

  • Get in a position to “attack” the pass so you can either exploit gaps or pull the defence out of position.
  • Identify where the space is and preserve it by running hard, at angles and passing firmly.
  • Use block passes to get the ball into wider spaces when the defence is in your face.
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