How to win 3 v 2 situations

In this five step exercise you can let your players figure out for themselves how to beat two defenders with three attackers.

Step 1

Set the scene for the players. There are three attackers and two defenders to beat in a 15 metre wide channel.

Step 2

Get the players to have a go at beating the defenders. I find it's best to monitor the exercise by watching from behind the defenders.

Step 3

Stop after every couple of attempts and use questions to find out from the players why some attacks are successful and others not. Don't forget to ask the defenders as well.

Step 4

Pull out two or three players at a time to watch. Ask them to look at what makes a successful attack.

Step 5

If the players are struggling, introduce the two strategies suggested here.

Making the play work

• Players must attack at game speed to make the rugby drill more game-like.
  
  
• Allow the defenders to make tackles and win the ball. That's an important part of the game as well, even though your focus is on the attack.
  
  
• Let the players work things out for themselves. Don't keep stopping and interrupting. Let them learn through experience of what works and what doesn't.
  
  
• If the rugby drill continually breaks down because of a weakness in technique, stop and practise the technique without pressure.
  
  
• I think this step-by-step approach gives the players a better understanding of the situations and solutions they can use.

This article is taken from the Better Rugby Coaching e-newsletter. Click here to sign up and get free rugby drills and skills twice a week.