Run lines off the scrum

WHY USE IT

From a scrum, each back row player has a different running line so they can cover initial attacks and a possible break and then defend around the ruck.

set up

Any-sized area, different-coloured cones.

HOW TO PLAY

ACTIVITY: Put the back row players on their knees in a scrum shape. Call out a coloured cone. The nearest back-rower (normally 7 or 6) runs to that cone. The other back-rowers take a line to the cone which goes with their role (see below). The first back rower goes to ground while the other two take up defensive positions either side of the ruck. Develop by calling a second colour to move to.

GAME SITUATION: Set up a back line move (say with the other forwards). The 7 has to cover their opponent. If the move beats the 7 or attacks a space, either call “break” or “tackle”, so the other players know where to run to cover.

COACHING POINTS

The 7: Pressure on the 10. Be quick off the side of the scrum. Keep applying pressure on the inside of each ball carrier.

The 8: Cover the 7 on their inside and track their running lines, but slightly deeper. Covers the far side of the ruck.

The 6: Cover the blindside first and then track the 8, but deeper. Then cover a clean break. Go to the near side of the ruck and defend there.

ACTIVITY

• Call out the colour of a cone
• 7 goes to ground, 8 and 6 take up positions either side of the ‘tackle’
• Starting from the scrum position, three back row players run to the ‘tackle’
• Note the lines that each player takes - 7 to the ball, 8 inside 7 and 6 covering behind

• Develop by calling out another colour

GAME SITUATION

• Run against a ‘back line’, which can be made up of other forwards
• 7 aims to make a touch tackle on the ball carrier
• If 7 makes a touch tackle, then 6 and 8 set up for a ruck. Otherwise call “break” or “tackle” to challenge the lines of 6 and 8