Essentially, a loose head prop (1) adopts a more defensive position than a tight head (3), whose job is to disrupt the opposing hooker and/or split the tightness between the hooker and loose head.

Head, feet and body position are all important but the bind is vital and an area that referees are becoming much more strict on.

Attack, attack, attack!

The best form of defence is attack and this should always be in the mind of a good, aggressive loose head.

Whatever bind is used, the outside arm should punch through fast and hard on the “engage” call. The aim is to get the grip you want without your arm being knocked off course by the opposition 3.

Window of opportunity

As the opposition 3 sets up, look to see if they have their elbow up or down. If the elbow is not tight on their body (or weak on the “engage”) they are is allowing you an opportunity to gain the binding initiative.

Hand, arm, head and cheek

The hand, arm, head and cheek all need to work together to produce pressure.

The hand needs to reach as far up and around the 3’s body as you can reach. The whole outside arm should be in tight contact with the 3 and not have the elbow loose or hanging down.

The higher the 3’s elbow is, the less pressure they can apply with it. Always avoid them prising your elbow downwards.

The back of your head should be applying upwards pressure on the 3’s sternum while you keep your right cheek tight and close to their right cheek.

Once in this position, you can pull in your grip, squeeze and prise them up and away from your hooker. Their drive is now up and out and they will be in an uncomfortable and weak position.