Always attack the weak point

Line breaks occur because there is either a mismatch, a deception or a defensive mistake. This session concentrates on the attack identifying the mismatch and exploiting that situation. It looks easy but it’s the speed of thought required to make this a success that makes this an adavnced session.

Warm up time: 5
Session time: 6-9
Development time: 6-9
Game time: 15-20
Warm down time: 7

What to think about

Though a nimble winger might squeeze untouched through a gap, the first activity in this session recognises that there is likely to be some contact. Therefore, the ball carrier and support player have to react accordingly to a change in pace. Support players often hopelessly overrun the line break or are just too far behind to make a difference. They have to spot the mismatch too, recognise that their team mate will go for the break, and slow down or speed up to be in position. Anticipation is the key skill – you anticipate best by seeing the signs.

set-up

1. Identify the mismatch and attack it ruthlessly.
2. Support players: Anticipate the possible mismatches and change your running lines to meet possible breaks.

What you get your players to do

Start four defenders, two with ruck pads, and four attackers and a feeder at one end of the box. Get the players to run into the box and then get the feeder to release the ball. The attack has to get to the far end of the box, without being held (or tackled if you want more contact) by a non-ruck pad holder. A ball carrier can bounce off a ruck pad if he wants.