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 Defence, Rugby drills
Let the defenders come up with a plan to stop the attack from the side of a ruck, and then let them implement it. MORE
in Defence
Cut down the space in front of the attack and then cover across if they have an overlap without exposing the inside shoulder. Here’s how to do it. MORE
in Defence
Work on the first clearing out defender getting to the tackle situation as soon as the ball carrier is down. Make sure he makes the most difference to winning back the ball. MORE
in Defence
How to create a simple defensive system around the edge of your rucks to: Deny the opposition easy gains; pressure them into mistakes; create more chances for turnovers. MORE
in Defence, Rugby drills
Against expansive teams, work out who is the weakest attacker and target him by closing him down when he gets the ball. Then turn him over and counter attack. MORE
in Defence, Rugby drills
Beef up your defence so players make tackle after tackle. The opposition will be put under immense pressure in attack and will be staggered by your defensive work rate. MORE
in Defence, Rugby drills
A tackle is not over until the ball carrier is on the ground and the tackler is getting back into the game. Your players need to understand the technical aspects of this.
By Sean Holley, former Bristol and Ospreys coach MORE
in Defence, Rugby drills
Focus on man-to-man marking, so the attack feels like it is running into a wall of defenders. It requires good footwork and working with the other defenders to make sure there are no holes in that wall. MORE
in Defence, Rugby drills
This works on low tackles and the decisions of the tackler himself and the next arriving defender to maximise the chances of a turnover. MORE
in Defence, Rugby drills
Improve your players’ tackle technique along with understanding the role of the closest defenders both inside and outside the tackler. ACTIVITY Start with just one defender running sideways and then forward to make a tackle The ball carrier comes forward and is tackled DEVELOPMENT Develop by having two defenders The second defender either assists... MORE
