Back row defence

Since the back row is closest to the opposition attack from a scrum, it can make the most difference on defending attacks within 10m of the scrum. This session looks at its roles from normal and wheeled scrums and how it might stop the attackers on the gain line.

Warm up time: 5-7
Session time: 8-10
Development time: 10-15
Game time: 10-15
Warm down time: 5-8

What to think about

This is a good exercise for both attack and defence. The attack will have to work out solutions to execute effective line-breaking moves. There are several ways to organise the back row, but with the wheels, players will have to work out how to readjust their running lines. The “last defender” from the scrum, the player furthest from the action, will probably run a covering line but you want at least one player in the front line.

set-up

1. Decide on who is covering what before the ball comes into the scrum.
2. Communicate when the scrum wheels on how the roles have changed.
3. Aim to meet the ball carrier on the gain line with at least one back row player.

What you get your players to do

Set out five cones as in picture 1. The ruck pads indicate the three channels the attack might run through to help modify the running lines of the attack so the roles of the back row are more clearly defined. Put three back row players on the straight scrum setting. Put two attackers at the back of the scrum with at least two other attackers opposite the pads. Indicate whether you want a straight scrum or a wheel. The defenders shift to different lettered cones according to the wheel and you shout when you want the ball released (see picture 2). The attack has to run through one of the three channels. They can pick and go or pass out to the backs. Use touch tackling. Swap scrum position so the attack starts on the other side (see picture 3).