EXPERT SESSIONS AND ADVICE FROM QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED GRASSROOTS RUGBY COACHES
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 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).
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.
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.
“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.”
Here is a pressure game where the requirements for success can change in a heartbeat – just like in a real match.
in Passing & Handling, Rugby drills
Hold defenders to retain space for receivers to move into. Here are the key points to fixing defenders which should help young and developing players to improve this skill. Generally, defenders want to chase the ball carrier, but their mind is always on whether to stay on the current ball carrier or move onto potential... MORE
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in Attack, Passing & Handling, Rugby drills
During a match, 3 v 2s happen more times than you think. Yet, each situation can be different, with defenders and attackers arriving from different angles and starting close or far apart. You need to challenge yourself to replicate these scenarios in training. MORE
Scenarios offer a great way of engaging your players in games. By putting the players in a specific point of a well known match, they get the opportunity to develop their game management. For younger players, scenarios give them the opportunity to be their favourite players of their favourite teams. For older players, scenarios give them the opportunity to challenge their decision making with regards to the score-line and also how to deal with specific threats or weaknesses in future opposition. MORE
in Passing & Handling, Rugby drills
Create situations under pressure where passers and their support players have to run at one angle and then pass at another. Encourage players to attack at pace and find ways to keep the ball moving forward. The support player tracks the ball carrier so they can be ready to take a pass or help the ball carrier if they are tackled. MORE
in Passing & Handling, Rugby drills
One of the most important attacking CORE skills is fixing defenders and passing to space, especially for 3 v 2s. Work on the running and passing skills players need so they become good habits in games. Focus on reasons to pass than just passing – fixing a defender at pace. MORE
