On the face of it a simple 5v5 but by delaying defenders and creating two lines of defence, questions are asked of attackers as they look to take advantage of overloads and score a try.
SET UP
A 40x25m box with three players from each team facing each other in the middle. Outside the box are two players from each team, one pair has a ball (picture 1)
THE RULES
The ball is passed between the two players. On your call of “Go!” the player in possession of the ball and the rest of his team run back to their own try line to attack.
The other team run back to their try line in order to defend. The defenders to the side can only retreat to their line once the rest of the team are back (picture 2). This creates a 5v3v2, forcing the attack to draw, offload and get in position to support (picture 3).
SCORING
Attack gets a point for a try. Defence gets a point for preventing a try, a forward pass or the attack dropping the ball. Add extra points for great support in attack or defence.
Play for five attacks then switch roles to see which team wins.
TELL THEM
“You must react quickly to what is in front of you whether you are attacking or defending.” “Ball carrier must ensure team mates are ready to support when attacking.”
COACHING TIPS
This game allows the tension to build as players will have little idea of their role in a move until it begins to unfold.
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