EXPERT SESSIONS AND ADVICE FROM QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED GRASSROOTS RUGBY COACHES

MENU

Converting opportunities in the Red Zone

by Dan Cottrell in Attack, Rugby coaching videos

Build pressure on opponents by going forward and retaining possession in the “red zone”, that’s near to the opponent’s try line. Use this activity to create that scenario.

 

  1. A group of 6-8 players move around in any direction in a 20m box, passing between each other.
  2. When you shout “RED ZONE”, the ball carrier runs into the 22m area. He then moves forward about 2m before either going to ground or turning for support.
  3. The first supporter reacts by driving over or driving in and the ball is presented to a second supporter. It is then passed out, either one or two passes. The ball is again carried forward 2m.
  4. Ideally this happens seven to eight times before the ball is passed to a player who scores. Shout “tackle ” every time the 2m is gained.
  5. Develop by adding two defenders. When they touch the ball carrier, the ball carrier goes to ground.

COACHING TIP

Encourage players to work in threes, so the ball is cleared quickly from each tackle situation.

WHAT TO CALL OUT

  • Communicate where the gaps are.
  • Always go forward.
  • Make flat passes close to the line.
  • Make shorter passes closer to the line.
  • Keep your depth in attack (runners coming from deep are harder to stop).

DEVELOP THE PRACTICE

Play a game of touch rugby where one team keeps hold of the ball until it is knocked forward or a forward pass is used. When touched, the ball carrier goes to ground immediately and the ball is passed away from the ground.

Alternatively the player can remain on their feet and the next player rips the ball and passes.

Develop with holding tackles, and then full contact. The defence is not allowed to compete for the ball when it’s on the ground.

For more developments, try out…

How to create a mismatch

in Attack, Rugby drills

Creating overlaps increases your chance of all positive results: scoring tries, gaining ground, making breaks and quick recycled ball. So use planned moves from the scrum base to manufacture a 3 v 2. MORE

Share this

Related

Ruck running threes

in Attack, Rugby drills

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

Attacking flat from 10

in Attack, Rugby drills

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

Return to play: Defensive emphasis 2 v 1s

in Attack, Rugby drills

2 v 1s offer an ideal return to play exercise because you just need three players. And the players can work in bubbles. Develop your individual’s defence by taking them on from just making good tackles. Help them decide when to tackle to prevent the opposition keeping the ball alive. MORE

9-10 combinations

in Attack, Rugby drills

Build up the relationship between 9 and 10 as the fly half assesses his options and takes the pass from 9 ready to release players around him. Your 10 needs to understand the strength, speed and height of the passes from his 9 so he can adjust his own running lines and distance from his partner. MORE

Follow us
X
X