Defensive footwork

WHY USE IT

The grab tackle has to be on the shorts, meaning the tackler has to be close enough to reach forward.

SET UP

A 5m square (or larger for more experienced players).

HOW TO PLAY

EXERCISE

Put a defender in the middle of the square and four attackers, numbered 1 to 4, on the corners. Numbers 1 and 2 must reach the line directly opposite them, as do 3 and 4. Call out one of their numbers. That attacker aims to reach their line before they are grabbed. A grab is on the shorts, not the shirt. The attacker is not allowed outside the square. If they go outside or are grabbed, the defender gets a point. As soon as the attacker reaches their line or goes out/gets grabbed, call out another number. Play for 30 seconds, with attackers returning to their start points after each go. See how many points the defender can score.

DEVELOPMENT

Put two defenders in a larger box. They work as a team to grab the attackers as above.

COACHING POINTS

• Get the feet close to the attacker. 
• Keep on the toes and light on the feet.