Complete the tackle by getting back into position to challenge for the ball, but under pressure. Know the tackle rights but also what the referee looks for.
The tackler can’t enter the tackle contest from any angle. They must come through the “gate”, just any other player. They can also easily be penalised if they goes off their feet again or doesn’t release the tackled player properly.
Put a ball carrier and tackler in the middle of the diamond.
Have a ruck pad holder on each corner of the diamond, lettered A to D.
Have the ball carrier walk forward, with the tackler coming from a slight angle to put him on the ground.
After the tackler has made the tackle, he gets to his feet to play the ball from the correct angle.
Shout out one or more letters at any stage of the tackle. That ruck-pad holder has to run round to go over the tackled player (from the correct angle).
The tackler has to decide whether he can compete for the ball, just roll out or compete for the space over the ball.
Develop by adding two defending support players.
Call out these players to compete at any stage as well. Finally, remove the ruck pads.
TECHNIQUE
Release, bounce up and assess the options.
If behind the tackled player, come back over with the backside to the opposition.
Using an inverted backline shape, your runners from a ruck can give the 9 more options to pick up the best-placed player to break the defensive line. An inverted three is a group of three players that line up so the furthest player is in front. All but the first player in the line can take the ball with a player in support to drive them out and away from the previous breakdown. It’s easy for the outside players to adjust their timing to support the first player if he’s the receiver. MORE
How to take the ball close to the gain line in attack to put the defence under more pressure. It will exploit quick ball from rucks by putting attackers flat, running angles and offloading before or after the tackle. MORE
Create pace onto the ball from a “free pass” to a static player by encouraging your players to organise themselves quickly and work in threes. When the rules state that a free pass has to be to a static player, your players have to be at ease with repositioning themselves to be able to generate some pace onto the ball. MORE
With up to five players in action, use this exercise to work on footwork, decision making and teamwork. Quick to set up, it can be used as part your RTP sessions or into the main season as a warm up activity. MORE
Match-time tackling can be 1 v 1, but often it’s a team effort, especially for younger players. Use this simple activity to build confidence, communication and tackle technique. MORE
