Better backfield kick cover

All defensive systems must cover three areas:

• The front line: defending the running game.
• The backfield: covering the longer kicking game.
• The intermediate zone: covering short attacking kicks and the space behind the front line.

In an “up-and-out” or drift defence, the defensive 9 will often cover the intermediate zone. This can release the full-back to play deeper as part of what is commonly called the backfield “pendulum”.

The full-back and two wingers swing across the pitch according to the position of the ball and the likely kicking options. Typically, two players cover the backfield while the third moves into the defensive line on the attacking side. However, the exact balance will depend on the defensive system and the threat posed by the opposition.

The full-back is at the centre of the pendulum, generally working across the pitch between the 15m lines. As a rule, it is better to start slightly too deep than too shallow. It is easier to run forward onto a kick than turn and chase back.

The covering winger cannot always drop as deep because they may still be needed in the front line. However, their position near the touchline can give them a useful angle to cover kicks across the field.

Good communication is essential. It keeps the backfield connected and reminds players to adjust as the ball moves. This is particularly important for wingers, who may spend long periods away from the immediate action.

A well-organised pendulum closes down the attacking team’s preferred kicking spaces, perhaps forcing the kicker to use a less effective option.

Inside the 22m area, the backfield normally becomes more compressed. There is less space to defend and a greater need to cover attacking kicks into the in-goal area.

Use Dan Cottrell’s activity on page 5 to work on the basics of the pendulum. Then use Colin Ireland’s scenario activity on page 4 to help players move into position to catch and clear kicks.