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.
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
Instead of having lots of different plays, have one play with lots of different options. It makes it simple to practise, remember and easier to execute on match days. Here’s how to set it up… With this play, the defending team has the problem of identifying the strike player. Each attacking player must expect the ball. MORE
Build your players’ understanding of running lines so they can read what’s in front of them. These exercises will help your fly half and centres decide on the best pass or running line to use in a game.
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Here's a classic 10 loop play which allows the Ireland fly half, Johnny Sexton, to score against Argentina. It uses the principles of setting up a killer backs move. MORE
