Close support, attack and defence

WHY USE IT

Though there are some principles to follow, this activity will give the players an opportunity to try out different ideas. Expect messy outcomes.

SET UP

Edge of a normal pitch; a ball.

HOW TO PLAY

Activity: An attacker starts on their chest, with a ball in front of them. A support player is 1m behind them. Two defenders start side-by-side, about 1m in front of the attacker who has the ball. When the attacker gets to their feet, the rest of the players react. The attacker aims to get to the line in front of them, 5m away. Using full tackling, the defenders aim to bring the attacker to ground, while the supporting attacker drives the ball carrier through. If a tackle is made, the defenders have five seconds to grab the ball, legally. The support attacker has to protect the ball carrier. Swap roles and repeat.

Developments: The support attacker starts to the side. Adjust the starting positions of the defenders. Have the attacker on their feet and receiving a pass from the support attacker.

COACHING POINTS

• Drive forward low, but square.
• Keep busy with short, hard steps and the ball tight to the body but shifting to the left and right.
• Tacklers: legs first, then body.
• Bounce back into the game from the ground.
• Support attacker, get in behind ball carrier and keep talking.

1. Start two defenders in their fronts
2. Put one attacker behind the other, with the ball just in front of the first attacker

1. When the attackers move, the defenders react
2. The front attacker picks up the ball and tries to get to far line

1. The defenders aim to bring down the attacker and then have five seconds to steal the ball
2. The supporting attacker aims to drive through the ball carrier and then protect the ball should a tackle be made