Line speed, that is the defensive coming forward quickly and in an organised state, certainly puts pressure on the attack. However, it’s notoriously tough to coach, even at the senior level. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t start putting in place some organisation. Here are some ideas to work with. MORE
Defence has traditionally centred around the objective of winning the ball back. Which is absolutely the point but, by only focusing on or rewarding a player or team for doing that we can overlook or miss so many positive bits of play that count as good defence. MORE
You need to be flexible in your approach to backline defence and suit the strengths of the team you coach. But there are principles you need to keep to be effective in the modern game. COACH THE TEAM, NOT THE SYSTEM I have coached a number of different teams and I think it is important... MORE
All players can be more effective in the tackle area, but what are the top players doing that your players can also copy and use in games. Here are two ideas to work on in training... MORE
Some simple organisation can mean you cut down lots of teams attacking options, especially if they have one quick or big (or both!) player who loves to run with the ball. This works well with younger age groups. MORE
Develop your defensive tactics to get back into position after a line break. Your defenders need to learn their roles and responsibilities to prevent the attack taking more advantage. MORE
Work on getting into position quickly to fill the spaces either side of the ruck, with the right spacings and then coming forward as a group to cut down attacking options. MORE
The first two defenders at the edge of the ruck must understand their roles to ensure they don’t get caught out by the running 9 or an inside pass from the opposition 10. MORE