Run straight - create overlaps

WHY USE IT

Attackers that drift sideways as they approach defences kill overlaps by using up the space available and also allow defences to move with the ball. Holding defenders creates and keeps space.

Set up

A 6m square made up of three channels

HOW TO DO IT

Three attackers (A1, A2 and A3) play against two defenders trying to score a try in the far channel. Each attacker enters his own channel. Defenders can mark the first and second attackers and defend against anybody else in their channel. Attackers cannot pass back inside. The idea is to create an overlap, getting the ball to A3 in their channel because no defender is allowed to tackle them there.

Show them the wrong way (drift – see top picture)

A1 enters channel 1 then drifts across into channel 2 before passing to A2 who has been forced into channel 3 along with A3. The defenders follow the ball across and force the attackers into touch or compress play.

Show them the right way (fix – see middle picture)

Attackers remain in their channels. They pass into the next channel and free up A3. They run at the defender’s inside shoulder then pass once they are committed to the tackle.

TECHNIQUE

Attackers “fix” their defenders by running at their “inside” shoulders, the side furthest from where the pass will be made (see bottom picture).