Counter attack training

Work on the counter-attacking options from kicks with your back three (two wingers and full back) for 10 minutes each session. Aim to move the ball away from trouble, with passing, running or kicks.

When the opposition kick the ball to your back three, they are exposed with most of their support in front of them. “Aim for the village not the city” by playing away from where the opposition forwards might be.

1. Have a midfield group (9, 10, 12, 13) receive a pass and kick the ball to a back three.
2. They can use box kicks, high balls or cross kicks.
3. The kicking group then chase their kick.
4. The back three field the ball and counter attack, initially trying to beat the three chasers through passing and running.
5. Run through this several times.

1. Then develop it with one set of backs versus the other.
2. The back three can again counter attack through passing and running but now have the option of kicking the ball back either for distance or a kick to regain possession like a chip, grubber, up and under.

TECHNIQUE

• Ideally the ball should be moved away from the receiver as he is the focus for the chase. He should pass to someone in space and in a better position to run it back or make a kick.
• Use switches and dummy switches to hold defenders.
• Move the ball away from the forwards.