The way of the jackal

The player who "steals" the ball at the tackle (sometimes known as the "jackal") often will find that as he picks up the ball the opposition support players arrive and try to knock him back off it.

To keep possession he needs to stay in a strong, low position and pull the ball into his chest. As he is knocked back he protects the ball by turning his body so he lands facing his own team and on his side.

Once on his side he has to make the decision whether to pop the ball up to a support player or present it on the ground as far back as he can reach.

This decision depends on how close his support players are and whether or not the opposition clearing player has stayed on his feet or gone to ground.

Set up lots of live scenarios in training so your players get used to making these decisions in game like situations.