Develop attackers’ ability to realign after a chase to retrieve the ball and then attack a different type of defence each time. Challenge the defenders to organise on the run too. By Dan Cottrell
ACTIVITY
Three defenders (A,B,C), each which a number allocated to them
Four attackers, in a two and two, run back to retrieve a ball
Roll a die
DIE FACES EXAMPLES
1 Just A 2 A and B 3 A, B and C 4 B and C 5 Just B 6 A and C
If no die, then spread out six cones, give each one a number and tread on it to start
The defenders nominated by die roll run out
The attackers run forward, aiming to score at the far end.
The go finishes on an infringement or if the ball carrier is tackled in possession
SPECIAL POWERS EXAMPLES
One defender can go for an interception at any time to finish all the attackers’ turns
One attacker has three seconds to pass the ball after the touch
CHALLENGE
Connect in attack and defence to pressurise.
SET UP
A 30m box, a large foam die.
With no die, put out six cones very close together and step on one of them.
HOW TO DO IT
ACTIVITY
Put four attackers inside the box, as in the top picture, facing away from three defenders, and a ball at the far end. (You can use four defenders if you want).
Allocate numbers to the defenders.
Roll the die as you shout go. The attackers retrieve the ball and attack. The defenders are released depending on the number.
If the ball carrier is touched, the go is over, and the players reset.
Give the attackers five attempts before swapping roles.
DEVELOPMENTS
Give players special powers. Give them a different coloured bib (or headband) to indicate which is which.
Examples:
Defenders
One defender can intercept. If they do, that’s the end of the attackers attempts.
One defender is the “cruncher”. If they touch the ball carrier, that’s the end of the attackers’ attempts.
Attackers
One attacker is allowed to run for three seconds after the touch before passing the ball.
One attacker is allowed to go offside after the first pass is made. They can receive a kick to score.
Use this power pass exercise to work on both passing and passing out of the contact. The variability of how the attacker is held back increases the learning outcomes as players face new passing challenges. MORE
“The supporting player starts in front of the ball carrier, while the defender has his back to the attack. When you shout play, with the supporting player walking forward and the defender out of position, the players will have to think quickly to come up with winning solutions.” MORE
Develop ball carriers with some grit and determination to power through the tackle situation. If they don’t break the tackle, at least they provide a good target for their support players. This session creates ways to test their mettle. MORE
Mauling is a powerful weapon and you don’t have to be a big side to use it. A great tactic is to set up a maul from the back of a ruck to create go-forward and tie in their defenders. MORE