Clearing and parking

One of the principles of attacking rugby is to retain possession. Watching the Rugby World Cup in 2007, I was impressed by the way some of the so-called "minnows" retained the ball for phase after phase against some of the more fancied teams.

These teams were quite content to keep possession even if it meant sometimes going backwards for a couple of phases. One of the techniques they used was to "clear and park" at the tackle, a tactic unashamedly borrowed from New Zealand. The idea is that by driving opponents away from the ball and then protecting it, the scrum half has more time to use the ball.

This is no short cut to success, however. You still first need to develop good rucking technique and attitude with your players.

Looking to develop a better rucking skills in your players? The Ruck and How to Win It can help you sharpen your players' skills, boost your side's technical expertise and channel your team's aggression to create a successful "rucking machine".

Click here to read more about the manual and to order your copy today.