Encourage players to reposition themselves in pairs to close down an attacker and stop his progress
Mark out a 10m x 4m area with three cones spaced 2m apart on one long side and two cones spaced 3m apart on the opposite side.
Put a feeder and two attackers on the corner next to the side with two cones. Put three defenders on the adjacent corner on the side where there are three cones.
When you say “go”, the two attackers run to the cones on their side and defenders run to the cones on their side.
As soon as the attackers have reached the cones, the feeder passes the ball to the attackers who aim to score on the opposite side.
Defenders have to come forward and make a tackle, either individually or in pairs.
Develop by removing the cones. Then take away one of the defenders.
You will need
A 10m x 4m area
1 ball
Cones
Bibs
Got more players?
This is a dynamic game so you can have players queuing to take their turn, or run another game alongside.
What to tell your players
“Communicate which player you are marking”
“Get feet close to the ball carrier”
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All defensive patterns require strong communication and an ability to work together as a line. Use this folding defence activity to get groups of players filling in and coming forward to tackle side-on. MORE
As the attack goes the same way from a ruck, where should the first defenders line up? There are no hard and fast rules, so use this breakdown activity to help them make the right decisions. MORE
Develop good footwork in the last few steps before the tackle. First, to power into a tackle situation, and then to adjust as the tackle target moves either to the left or the right. This activity uses low-impact outcomes with tackle tubes to focus on the technical aspects of the skill. MORE
Use this tackle tube activity to focus on good technique under pressure, with lots of strong repetitions and enough distractions to keep the players fully aware of their team mates in the defensive line. This is low-impact exercise is ideal to develop the technical aspects of the skill. MORE
Like other disciplines, rugby has a jargon of its own.
Unless the meanings are explained they can be meaning-less.
That's why I've explained them in plain, simple English and with large, clear illustrations in my manual Rugby Tactics Made Simple.
But not only that, you'll learn how to coach the tactics with my tips. If you’re new to coaching or prefer a more simple style this is a great, straightforward introduction to rugby tactics.
"It highlights the key fundamentals of all aspects of play & gives coaches a good understanding of terminology and techniques at the highest level"- Richard Whiffin, assistant coach at London IrishMORE
Anxious about coaching rugby to children? Maybe you're already coaching, but sometimes struggling to get your points across at training?
Perhaps you sometimes simply run out of preparation time? Possibly you're feeling your sessions are getting dull?
Do you want a few new skills to boost your player's skills now? Or to help your players develop the techniques for seasons ahead? Maybe even the core skills for their whole rugby playing career?
Here's the answer... MORE