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LOGINClearing pass to an invisible target
Improve the pass from the base of a scrum or ruck by helping your players understand that the pass goes in front of the receiver. The key is that the passer’s target is not a physical one.
THE CLEARING PASS
All your players should be competent at the clearing pass from a set piece or phase play. However, you will probably spend most of your time working on this pass with your scrum half. Indeed, the long spin pass off both hands is an essential component for any scrum half.
Because it’s a long pass the target is not the starting position of the receiver but a point in space where the receiver will be in the time it takes the ball to reach them.
WHAT MAKES A GOOD CLEARING PASS
- The ball should travel in a straight line, not dipping or looping as it goes from passer to receiver.
- The spin on the ball should keep it flying point first, not tumbling or turning over in the air.
- The receiver should be able to catch the ball between head and waist height. This helps the receiver scan, as their head is up and not looking down at their knees.
- The receiver should be able to catch the ball without checking their run.
- The receiver should be able to catch the ball without bringing it into their body.
SCRUM-HALF PASSING ACTIVITY
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- Line up in two groups, with the front player in each group running alternately. Place a scrum half five metres in front with some balls. Have the receivers vary their runs so the pass length from the scrum half ranges between short and long.
- You are looking for the ball to be taken smoothly and easily by the receiver, so the weight of the pass becomes more critical.
Develop the passing variety
- Use the same setup but add game-like variety.
- The scrum-half can run and pass, linking with the receiver.
- The scrum-half can chip, box, or grubber kick for the receiver to run onto.
- Add two defenders with ruck pads who can pressurise the scrum-half when he puts his hands on the ball. Ensure they start from an onside position.
- Roll, pop, or place the ball for the scrum half to clear.
Dan Cottrell
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