When you run a move from the back of the scrum, the quality of ball delivery by the 8 is crucial. So work your 8 and 9 in isolation to develop an understanding of what’s best to use and when…
If the 8 can pass, or run and pass, from the base of the scrum, it allows the 9 extra options to be part of a move.
Start with an 8 leaning against a tackle tube, and with a ball at his feet.
Have a 9 close by.
Step and pass [TOP PICTURE] Using his feet, the 8 pushes the ball onto his right foot, as if it’s just been heeled. Then he puts his left foot forward, disengages and lifts the ball to the 9 (not pictured), who stands to his right or just behind him (picture 1, top).
Flick pass [BOTTOM PICTURE] Using his feet, the 8 pushes the ball between his legs. Then, with his right hand (away from opposition 9), he flicks the ball through his legs like an American Football “snap”.
Pick and roll When attacking left, the 8 puts the ball on his right foot, disengages and picks up. Pivoting around his left foot, he backs into the rival 9 and feeds the flanker, who’s running to the left.
Attack and pass The 8 puts the ball onto his right foot. After a signal from the 9, he disengages, picks up and runs right at 45 degrees to engage their 7, then pops the ball to the 9. Use a tackle tube and cones to replicate a scrum scenario.
Good shape in rugby means your players are into position quickly to attack from the next phase. The shape refers to threatening alignments, with all ball-carrying options well supported. MORE
Pressurise opposition lineouts by making their front ball a risky option. You need to combine speed, accuracy and anticipation to read their movements and beat them to the throw. Here’s how… MORE
“Get deep!” is a common call to get the backline to be in a position to run onto the ball. One way is to ask the players whether they can see the number on the back of the inside player. How can you create better scenarios though?
You can create scenarios where the players must run into position and then react. That’s because the game is dynamic – rucks and/or mauls happen at different speeds. MORE
Use the catch and drive, or the front peel to make the best use of front ball. The front peel is the perfect counter punch to a defence that sets up to defend a catch and drive. MORE
Players must win the race to the best space when attacking. In defence, players must work early, scan early and look to close space to force errors.
Attackers seek space, defenders take it away. This is also true over the ball.
Run this game over a series of sessions to gain the most benefit as the players develop their understanding of the tactical implications. MORE
It's easy to think that lineout front ball is only for a catch-and-drive to clear your lines, or to attack their try line from 5m. Yet, it can be used for off-the-top and front peels. But make sure you have the basics in place first. MORE
