Turnover: One, two - attack!

WHY USE IT

Builds on the tactic of clearing the ball from the danger area with two passes. The game adds the key factor of not knowing when the turnover will occur.

SET UP

A 10m wide area and cones, and a 30m area for the game.

HOW TO PLAY

Activity: Three players start 3m away from three cones. Place a ball beside one of the cones. This represents the point of a turnover. Shout “Go!”; the nearest player runs to the ball. The other two run forward until they are level with the ball, then turn to face where they started. The ball carrier quickly passes to the nearest player, who passes to the farthest player just as quickly. This player runs back to their starting cone, with the other two in support. The ball is passed back down the line.

Development: Add two defenders with ruck pads. They can start any distance behind the passing team, depending on the pressure you want to exert. They target the first two attacking players, aiming to make strong contact with the pads.

Game: Four attackers v seven defenders, with normal rules. The attack sets off from the midway point. Attackers can only commit two players to the breakdown. They either score, or the ball gets turned over and the defending team scores.

COACHING POINTS

• First player to the turnover ball must clear it from the contact area immediately.
• First receiver must pass it on again quickly.
• Second receiver then weighs up options: run, pass or kick.

ACTIVITY

1. A ball is put on this cone

2. All three players run from 3m back to get in line to take a pass and attack back up the box

DEVELOPMENT

1. Repeat the activity, but against a defence
2. Two defenders, with ruck pads, put pressure on the first two attackers

GAME SITUATION

1. Play four attackers against seven defenders
2. Have the option of throwing in a ball at any time for a random turnover
3. Only the ball carrier and one other are allowed in the contact area for the attacking team