The ultimate high ball coverage

The key to your full back (15) being in the right position to cover a high kick at any point in the game is to do his homework and always watch the opponents. Here is what your full back should do.

1. Begin by standing opposite the kicking team’s 10, and far enough back so the ball cannot be kicked behind.
2. Look at how the opposition line-up. For example, see if the 10 stands deeper and the back line is flat. This will determine if they are kicking and who is likely to kick.
3. Watch the opposition 10 closely and read his body language. See where he is looking, work out what kicking options he has and what kick is most likely.
4. As the opposition is about to kick, move quickly in the direction of where the ball is about to go.
5. Use the wingers to help. If there is no blindside, get the winger to drop back and cover any kick down the line. If your opponent’s wide game is poor, the openside winger can drop back for the long diagonal kick.
6. Take the first few kicks by shouting for the ball and turning the body sideways, in case the ball is dropped. Be confident and committed, and show the opponent that kicking the ball will get them nowhere.

The full back’s best position to cover kicking options.

The full back (15) can get to any point quickly by starting opposite the opposition 10, before anticipating and reading where the kick will go. He can anticipate by knowing which foot the kicker will use, and if he has turned to receive the ball to kick.

This article originally appeared in Rugby Coach Weekly.