Make sure your defence is in place quickly so they can come forward to make snare tackles and poach the ball. Define roles for players around the ruck so they can race off the line and cut down the opposition attack close to the ruck.
Put five defenders and three attackers to the side of a tackle tube, which represents a ruck.
On your call, the players run into position. On your next call, the attack comes forward with the defenders coming forward to cover the attackers. Only use touch tackling because this is an organizational exercise.
Develop by having a number of tubes spread around the pitch, with players moving from tube to tube to defend.
TECHNIQUE
1: Covers the inside runner only, must not move across with the 9
2: Covers the 9 if he runs with the ball
3 and 4: Cover the first receiver
X: Runs forward and behind the ruck to houndthe inside runner, or chase the 9. If he arrives too late (they have moved the ball open), he “plugs in” behind the openside defence
Make sure your players enter the breakdown legally – by getting tough through the tackle gate. This will also mean they’ll arrive square and in a better position to drive over the ball and win it. MORE
Time your chase and catch from a box kick, depending on the skills of your 9. Whatever the hang time and distance of the kick, the chaser should be able to challenge for the ball at the end of his sprint. MORE
Beating an opponent with a late change of direction is a priceless skill. As soon as the defender is set to tackle, the last step is key to taking the ball carrier out of his reach and past him into space… 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
