Start off passing in any direction to keep possession while defenders pressurise, then call a numbered try line. Attackers have to realign and all touch the ball before a try can be scored.
SET UP
Set up two 20m squares side by side. Inside each square, place an equal number of attackers and defenders – between 6 and 10. Number the sides of the square 1–4 (picture 1).
THE RULES
Attackers pass the ball between themselves while the defence tries to intercept (picture 2). If an intercept occurs, the sides swap roles and the defenders become attackers.
When a side is called, the defence stands still – in our example “3” is called.
Attackers from both squares must score a try on the called side with every player handling the ball (picture 3). The try-scoring pass must be backwards but can be lateral, switch, miss or any other type of pass you would be happy for your players to perform in a match Defenders, although not allowed to move, can intercept the ball if it is passed to near to them.
SCORING
The winners are the team that has all of their players handle the ball and score the try first. A forward pass or dropped ball is an automatic win to their opponents.
TELL THEM
“Loud and informative, calling for the ball”. “Movement throughout the square must be sharp.” “Realign in attack to get behind the ball once a number is called.”
COACHING TIPS
Here is a pressure game where the requirements for success can change in a heartbeat – just like in a real match.
I've been fortunate enough to have Eddie Jones deliver some sessions. This is the game he started with and it is excellent for reinforcing key messages around core skills or principles of play. MORE
Introduce players of mixed ability to contact by building up the skills through games and questioning.
I’ve found that using this progression of activity, the players develop contact skills together. You can adjust the pitch sizes and timings to suit your players. MORE
Build your team’s offloading skills in a game-related way so the passer and receiver can start to understand their options.
We know a simple offloading game can devastate defences. The players need the skills and the confidence to know how to offload and when to offload. MORE
Execute core skills under pressure in a competitive environment where players have to handle and support well when they are tired.
This will take time to work. Be patient! MORE
Use this unusual pitch set up to pose problems for your players to solve. As they work out ways to score they will begin to use handling and support to create width on their game. MORE
Encourage your ball carriers to run at pace, looking to avoid contact by anticipating where the spaces are.
This is a scanning exercise for just the ball carrier. They will make mistakes, yet start to become attuned to looking for gaps. MORE
