The weakest kink

WHY USE IT

Instead of ‘drilling’ the defensive lines, defenders will have to work out the solutions for themselves. It is also a good session for attackers to scan where the space is.

set up

Cones and four balls; a 25m box, cones and a ball for the game.

HOW TO PLAY

ACTIVITY: Four defenders face away from four ball carriers. On your signal, the defenders run to the left or right cone in front of them, before turning to close down two nominated ball carriers, who are running forward to score without being two-hand-touched.

DEVELOPMENT: One of the defenders starts facing up the field. They do not have to turn to defend – they have to make the choice whether to come forward or wait for their team-mates. Start the defenders further away from the main line. Widen the area and start the attackers further to either side, making the defenders have to slide across.

GAME SITUATION: Set up four defenders in a ragged line. Use cones to help, as in the bottom illustration. On your command, four attackers aim to score at the far end. Ideally use full tackling. No rucks or mauls allowed.

COACHING POINTS

• Come up together as a line, with no gaps for attackers to squeeze through.
• Cut down the space for the attack, but only as a connected line.