Backs blast

WHY USE IT

Focuses players on realignment – with the players being dropped out of the line at each phase, there needs to be good communication on who is first receiver and what lines to run. Run this session for about 15-20 minutes, with lots of changes of personnel, because it’s pretty exhausting. It is ideal for the A and B teams and is also good for Sevens practice.

SET UP

Uses seven attackers, five defenders, an attack coach and a defence coach. Use three balls and two ruck pads. Needs an area of about half a pitch.

HOW TO PLAY

Activity: Play the three phases as continuous, but start each phase on your whistle. Set up a backline with 50m to attack into, against five defenders. Play full tackling. If the backline penetrates the defence, then finish. It is a great opportunity to practise your first phase attack and defence. If the ball carrier is tackled, then teams reset as quickly as possible for a 5v3 at ruck pad 2. The two coaches call out two players from each group to drop out. Play the 5v3 in a 30m area. If the ball carrier is tackled, then reset for a 2v1 at ruck pad 3. Again, the two coaches remove two players each, though the attack retains one scrum-half for all phases.

Developments: Set up scenarios from first phase – for instance: Positions on the field, lineout delivery from a jumping pod or even an 8-9 delivery from a scrum); Vary the times between phases to suit speed of ball practice or fitness needs.

SET UP

1. A full backline runs a move. Note that the play starts 15m in

2. The defence comes up as a normal backline, playing full tackling

3. An attack and defence coach stand behind each group

MOVE FAILS

1. If the ball carrier is tackled, the players play from a ruck pad which is set back about 10m behind the defensive line 

2. The attack and defence coaches shout out who is not in the next play, to make it a 5v3

SECOND PLAY FAILS

1. If the ball carrier is tackled, then play to the edge of the pitch from ruck pad 3

2. The attack and defence coaches remove two more players to make it a 2v1