The turnover kings and tackle fetchers

Top tips:  >>  Lift the ball  >>  Be square to resist incoming clearers

1. Land on top of the ball carrier by ’chasing the feet’
2. Bounce to the feet, pushing off the ground with the hands
3. Go for the ball, showing separation between the chest and the tackled player

The tackler’s rights

A tackler is defined as a player who has brought the ball carrier to the ground and has at least one knee on the ground themselves.

Once they have made the tackle, they need to be clearly back on their feet and to have clearly released the ball carrier before they can challenge for the ball. 

They also have to arrive from their team’s side of the ball, just like any other defender.

What the referee sees

The tackle area is a busy and confusing space. Referees will be arriving from different angles, too, so the picture the tackler gives is vital if they want to be seen to be competing fairly for the ball.

The fetcher should certainly make sure they don’t put their hands beyond the ball and onto the ground to reach for it.

The best players learn the level of tolerance of the referee. There is no point arguing - just do it differently next time.

What your players need to do

Chase the feet

The best tackle fetchers ’chase their feet’ at the tackle, so they keep their feet moving and on the ground during the tackle.

It helps them land on top of the ball carrier, with their own hips facing the ground, so it is easier to get back to their feet and then twist to get onside.

Show the referee clear release

The fetcher has to show the referee they have released the tackled player. Some players clap their hands or flap them out. Others push up from the ground with the hands and get the chest clear of the tackled player. Just make it look clear to the referee on the day.

Lift the ball

Fetchers need to be able to lift the ball because that will quickly show the referee that they are on their feet.

Secondly, if the tackled player is holding on, the ball will be raised with the arms, a clear indication to the referee that he should award a penalty to the defence.

Be square, spread the legs and brace

With the hips parallel to the try line, the fetcher will not only be in a strong position, they will also be showing a good picture to the referee. With the legs spread and the chin tucked, the fetcher is braced for clear outs.

One hand or two?

Traditionally, the fetcher leans over with two hands together to grab for the ball. However, a good player can reach over with both hands - but wider apart - and then drag them together to pincer the ball.

This may mean that only one hand grabs the ball as the fetcher survives the clear out.