How to train for “slices”

A ‘slice’ is a term for a backs move, where two players change running angles, so one goes in front of the other, switching positions.

The passer then has to decide which player is in the best position to receive a pass and then dent the defence.

the challenge

Create a training scenario that:

• Improves the techniques to perform the play.
• Puts that technique under pressure in game-like situations.
• Allows plenty of chance to explore various possibilities.
  
  

How to play

Allow 20 minutes in the first week. Return to the play every week.

1. Walk through: In a confined space, the players walk through the play. This will give the idea of potential running lines and passing possibilities. Work from both sides and highlight possible difficulties, like length of pass or who runs when. The confined space allows lots of attempts.

2. Passive defenders: Run through the play, with defenders jogging forward and offering obvious spaces to attack. Stand behind the attack to indicate where the defenders will run.

3. Active defence: The defenders now try to read the play. Make this part quite competitive, with perhaps a small forfeit (like one star jump) if the other team is successful.

4. Dynamic start: Move the players around before they realign to set up the move. This replicates the dynamic start points which might happen from rucks or scrums that wheel.

Walk through

• With a feeder, the players walk through the play in a small box
• Work from both sides
  
  

•  Ensure the players have lots of goes, and swap positions

• You can add in a defender to help make the players consider the visual cues

Passive and active defence

• One pad holder pressurises the passer

• The other pad holder deliberately targets a channel to force a decision

• Start with a narrow box, before increasing the width to pressurise technique

Active defence:

• The pad holders try to read the attack, not the other way around
• Add in another pad holder

Dynamic attack

• You, or another player, runs out with a ruck pad. Put it down to indicate where the ruck will be

• As you run into position, the attackers and defenders move and realign before they attack using the play