This activity is based not so much around making the tackle but how to assist a team mate who has already made contact with a ball carrier.
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.
Let your 10 dictate attack – get others to defend
By Eamonn Hogan, experienced rugby coach working with representative teams in the UK and the US Quade Cooper, Dan Parks and even Toby Flood are all 10s who have been shifted to the wing or full back in defence at international level. Why do teams hide their 10s in defence? Size Most coaches feel the […]
Set-piece defence: The openside winger’s role
By Colin Ireland, Physical Education teacher with sixteen years’ experience working for the Scottish Rugby Union Each player at the set piece will have a role and responsibility to perform defensive duties – this includes the openside winger. From a lineout When the opposition has a lineout in your half, it’s less likely they will […]
U7 & U8: Work together as defenders
ACTIVITY: TRACK THE ATTACKERS Tell players to: “Move together towards a target” “Tell other defenders which way to move” 1 Three attackers spread out along one of the long sides of the area and two defenders stand on the opposite side. The attackers pass a ball from side to side between themselves. 2 When […]
5 ways to think better defensively
Follow these 5 important tips to make sure you cover the key areas of defence, even if you don’t have the resources to have a specialist defence coach. 1. Start specialising Like the set piece or kicking, defence is a specialist area which needs detailed attention. It cannot be something that is done as a […]
Defensive rugby drill to combat attacks from wingers
Some teams are blessed with quick wingers. However, whether you have quick players or not, you should always make time to work out a defensive system to combat direct attacks from speedy wingers.
Preventing pest players stealing the ball
Strategies to derail "pest" players (the ones who always seem to steal the ball and stop your side producing quick and clean ball).
Identify the threat rugby drill
A great Western Force Drill of the Week. Please search the site for more clips of rugby coaching drills in action
Keeping your defensive line straight
This rugby coaching session focuses on creating and maintaining a straight defensive line during the match.
Rugby tips for coaching a spread defence
A spread defence fills the pitch laterally. This rugby drill's objective is to prevent the opposition from going around the defensive line.
