Ruck races in defence

Based on a top team's ability to win crucial turnover ball, use this activity to develop your players’ detail at the breakdown.

1. Two players circle the cones
2. When you shout play, the players challenge for the ball, as if it was a tackle. The players must enter legally from their nominated side of the tackle

1. Ruck-pad holder follows the ball carrier (start him from different points)
2. A tackler and two other players come forward
3. A ball carrier jogs into the box

1. The ruck-pad holder aims to go over the ball and prevent the ball being stolen
2. The ball carrier is tackled and presents the ball
3. The first supporting defender goes for the ball
4. The second supporting defender drives away the ruck-pad holder

Why use it?

To contest the ball at the ruck, speed to the ball is a vital factor to allow the player the chance to get his hands on the ball. If he’s there before the ruck forms and is still gripping the ball as the opposition arrive, he can often win the ball or a penalty.

Set up

A ruck pad, cones, a ball.

How to do it

Activity one: Win the race

Two players circle a 3m square, with a ruck pad and ball in the middle, with each player knowing which direction they are playing.

When you shout play, they must win the space over the ball, entering from the correct angle. The attacking player, who has the ball on his side of the pad simply aims to protect the ball, while the defender aims to get his hands onto the ball.

Activity two: Three man steal

A ball carrier jogs into the box, with a ruck-pad holder behind him. A defender comes in from the side of the box to complete a tackle, with two support players.

A tackle is made, with one support player going for the ball and the other clearing away the ruck-pad holder.

Technique

• Arrive square, low and legal.
• Have a wide base with the legs to keep low.
• Aim to get the head over the ball.
• Defender: aim to lift the ball, not just grab it.