Tackle and recover

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.

1. Put a ball carrier and tackler in the middle of the diamond.
2. Have a ruck pad holder on each corner of the diamond, lettered A to D.
3. Have the ball carrier walk forward, with the tackler coming from a slight angle to put him on the ground.
4. After the tackler has made the tackle, he gets to his feet to play the ball from the correct angle.

1. 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).
2. The tackler has to decide whether he can compete for the ball, just roll out or compete for the space over the ball.

1. Develop by adding two defending support players.
2. 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.