EXPERT SESSIONS AND ADVICE FROM QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED GRASSROOTS RUGBY COACHES
Here are two versions of the same game. In each one, it is a basic 2 v 1, but the angles of attack and defence keep changing depending on the target. It really challenges the role of the support player to put themselves in a good position to give the ball carrier options.
The defender aims to prevent the attackers from scoring using good angles of the run.
You can progress to 3 v 2.
You could put this back into a game and place a condition such as only two defenders allowed in the 15m channel at one time in defence for example.
The direction of passing is backwards as normal. The changing angles create different pictures for the attacking players. When they attack straight ahead, it’s like trying to play against a set defence. In the wider gates, it’s like attacking against a defender who is tracking across.
It also encourages the defender to try and work to set themselves early using good body shape to dictate where they want the attack to play into.
The race is an excellent pressure game because the two groups are aware of each others’ success and push each other on.
in Footwork and evasion, Mini tag, Rugby drills
Create a competition to get to the line, with the attacker either using speed or evasive skills to beat a defender coming from a different angle. This easy to set up activity can be run as a breakout from games or as a large group in lots of boxes. Mix up the players so sometimes... MORE
in Attack, Defence, Rugby drills
Develop players’ balance and reaction in attack and defence. The session has lots of chances for good communication and teamwork. The movement disruption will mean players have to adjust their depth in attack or reconnect to the line in defence. MORE
in Passing & Handling, Rugby drills
Players work on their passing accuracy and then straight into a 2 v 1. The quick change should focus the players on working hard at executing their skills well. To improve passing, develop technique and then put it under pressure. This activity does both in a very short space of time. MORE
in Passing & Handling, Rugby drills
Without forcing the issue, use this race to illustrate to your players the need to run with two hands on the ball, so they can pass quickly and in both directions. Two hands on the ball means players are able to pass in any direction immediately, which is important to maintain continuity. MORE
in Footwork and evasion, Rugby drills
If your players can create a one versus one opportunity, it is a chance to breach the gain line. If they can unbalance their opposite defender, then they should succeed. Players need to understand that there are a number of ways to unsettle the defender both with and without the ball. It helps for the attacker to know what the defender is trying to achieve and reverse the psychology. Here are four of them. MORE
in Passing & Handling, Rugby drills, Small-sided games
Use this game-exercise-game activity to develop passing skills for all ages of players. You control the intensity to suit the skills of the players. They have to inject the energy. Use a game to motivate the players to improve their passing, then develop it in an exercise before returning to the game. MORE
