The B defender blitz

WHY USE IT

The player protects against the 9 running and, if the 9 passes, closing down the space inside the 10. It is a key role, requiring good vision and decision-making.

set up

Two ruck pads, two cones, one ball; then a 30m by 20m box with four ruck pads.

HOW TO PLAY

ACTIVITY: Set up two ruck pads and a ball as in the top illustration. They should be no more than 10m from a touchline. Mark out a gain line and another line which will be an acceptable distance to allow the first receiver to run (given that the B defender will have to move up and out). Put two defenders in the A and B positions beside a ruck. Have a 9, inside player and first receiver, who try to beat the ruck defence. Ideally, use full tackling – if not, then count two hands on the front of the chest as a tackle.

GAME SITUATION: Set up two sets of ruck pads, with a ball between each set. Indicate which ‘ruck’ to work from. The attack and defence line up. Shout out when the ball is live. Play live tackling but don’t go beyond one phase. The attack can’t go outside the other ruck pads in attack.

COACHING POINTS

• Make sure the first ruck defender is in place before setting up as the B defender.
• Be dynamic and on your toes, ready to move forward and take on the 9 or move out to mark inside the first receiver.