Defence
An extra split second of pressure on the opposition can be the difference between success and failure. Rugby defence is not just about defensive systems. The best defensive teams enjoy defending. They are positive in defence and loud and accurate with their communication. So, does your rugby team see defence as a chore or as a great chance to win back the ball? Use the defence drills below to get your team working together to form a more cohesive defensive unit.
in Core skills, Defence, Rugby drills, Tackling
Here are 10 key points to make an aggressive front-on tackle which dominates the ball carrier. MORE
in Defence, Rugby coaching videos, Rugby drills, Warm Ups
Get your ruck defenders into the right position then create an awareness of the ball and the attacking threats in this simple ruck warm-up exercise. MORE
in Defence, Rugby drills, Tackling
The type of tackle a defender might use depends on the space either side of him. Practise this activity to work on the defender’s decision-making in the set-up, footwork and tackle execution. MORE
in Defence, Practice plans, Tackling
When your opponents have extra players in attack and create an overlap, it is crucial your team works hard to scramble back. Players must slide across in defence to cut down the attack’s space and tackle the ball carrier.
This session outlines how to implement such an overlap cover. MORE
in Defence, Rugby drills
Work on the connection between the number 7 and number 10 from the side of scrum. MORE
in Defence, Practice plans, Tackling
Wrapping up the ball carrier in a smother tackle stops them passing or presenting the ball on their terms. It also slows the attack down, letting your defence get organised.
There is the added opportunity to regain the ball if the tackler can pull the player down and turn them to your side. MORE
in Defence, Rugby drills, Tackling
Kneeling rugby is a low impact contact game which is ideal to learn to tackle. It's one of my favourites because I've seen my players using it unprompted on other occasions (in their homes or in small areas in gardens). MORE
in Defence, Rugby drills
Coming in the defensive line at speed needs the players to react to possible changes in angles by attackers or late entry into the line. Use this activity to work on awareness and footwork… Good line speed tends to increase pressure on the attack but it can cause problems for the defenders unless they can react quickly to last moment changes in the attackers. This activity keeps defenders on their toes and moving forward MORE
in Defence, Email Newsletters
One of the key principles of defence is to stay connected. That means working as a team to close down the options. So, no matter what defensive system you run, the defenders should be aware of their team mates. MORE
in Defence
To help your defenders appreciate the value of racing up quickly, give them a hand in training by restricting the space the attack can operate in. Watch our video and then try our simple exercise… MORE
