From my experience even basic backs moves, like a miss pass, loop or switch, need careful consideration. Not least because there are crucial variations you can make to suit your team’s strengths. During the match the players then have to understand the purpose of the move – why this move here and now? Use the backs moves below to turn your back row into a deadly attacking force.
Set up a realistic training scenario so your players can practise backs moves like “slice”, where timing, angles and decisions all depend on how the defence sets up and then reacts. MORE
We often need a collective movement in attack to break down a defence, because one player can't do it on their own. Leicester Tigers Junior Academy coach, Tom Brocklebank, discusses why you should think formations, not moves. MORE
This session builds up a phase play move to break down an organised defence, focusing on the space outside their 10. It is easy to set up but requires a good level of skill to run the right lines and time runs. However, the angles should give your team a chance to get over the tackle line, if not break it completely. MORE
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
Get defenders off balance and less effective by making them commit to one tackling line while attacking another. You can do this by varying your angle of attack. MORE
A strike runner often makes his break because a decoy runner has drawn the defender. Decoy runners need to be credible and available to receive the pass. This session works on developing moves using decoy runners. MORE
This is an exciting play from a scrum with multiple options. It tests the opposition with an unusual starting positioning, which forces them to make defensive reads at the line. MORE
All too often defences can tell exactly where the ball is going and who the strike runner is going to be. “Options open” is all about creating as many realistic attacking options for the passing player and keeping the defence guessing until it’s too late.
The patterns are basic and can be achieved by any team. MORE
Running complex attack patterns to break the tackle line often doesn’t succeed. The same outcome can be achieved by the late movement of a strike runner into space and a well delivered pass. Running lines known as “ins” and “outs” can be used at any level of the game and, if well executed, will lead to more clean breaks. MORE
Attack wide by holding their midfield defenders to create an extra man on the outside. Ideal from a lineout as well as a scrum, check the detail to make the most of a possible break. MORE
