EXPERT SESSIONS AND ADVICE FROM QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED GRASSROOTS RUGBY COACHES
The player who “steals” the ball at the tackle (sometimes known as the “jackal”) will often find that as he picks up the ball, the opposition support players arrive and try to knock him back off it.
To keep possession, he needs to stay in a strong, low position and pull the ball into his chest. As he is knocked back, he protects the ball by turning his body so he lands facing his own team and on his side.
Once on his side he has to make the decision whether to pop the ball up to a support player or present it on the ground as far back as he can reach.
This decision depends on how close his support players are and whether or not the opposition clearing player has stayed on his feet or gone to ground.
Set up lots of live scenarios in your rugby training sessions so your players get used to making these decisions in game-like situations.
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Click the link to see a London Irish training video showing two groups of six players continuously recreating the Jackal turnover.
in Email Newsletters, Tackling
With the contact rugby not far away, you will be planning some form of tackling practice to fit into your training sessions. In these unusual times, you might find yourself almost reteaching tackling for some players. Even for more experienced players, they will need time to rediscover the safe, efficient and effective techniques and skills.... MORE
in Rugby drills, Tackling
If the tackler can get in front of the ball carrier just before the tackle, it’s easier to make shoulder contact. Young players in particular will benefit from this skill. This session develops simple defensive tracking skills so the defender gets in front of the attacker to make a two-handed touch. If they can do this, they should be in a good position to make a full tackle. MORE
in Rugby drills, Tackling
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in Rugby drills, Tackling
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in Tackling
Develop better footwork skills to get close to the ball carrier, plus good teamwork in this defensive reaction activity. This session builds a better defence by getting pairs of players to work together. MORE
in Rugby drills, Tackling
Your approach to what you are looking for when you are coaching tackling will help you and your players focus on the right areas to improve their defensive capabilities. When I look at the tackle, I am predominantly outcome driven. If it works, then that is more important than if all the technical processes have been ticked off. MORE
