Slice and block

WHY USE IT

The angles should give your team a chance to get over the tackle line, if not break the line.

SET UP

A 20m wide, 15m long box, two ruck pads and a ball.

HOW TO PLAY

Activity: A feeder stands at the side of the box, with two ruck pad-holders at the far end facing three attackers. The first ruck pad-holder focuses on the first receiver (F); the second pad-holder focuses on either of the other two players. The first receiver calls either a “Slice” or “Block” play. If they call a slice, 1 runs out and 2 runs in, with 1 going before the 2. They then pass to the player who is running to the space. On the block play, 2 runs in front of 1, with either a late pass behind 2 to 1, an early pass to 2 who passes to 1 on the switch, or a late pass to 2.

Game situation: Put a ruck pad on the ground halfway up one side of the box, with a ball next to it. Three defenders start in the box, with the ruck pad acting as the offside line. Three attackers start at the end of the box. They have to use the moves to get to the other end.

COACHING POINTS

• Passer turns slightly to sight the runners.
• Look at the defence before you look at the pivot player. 

SLICE PLAY

1. A feeder sets off the attack
2. The first receiver (F) chooses which player to pass to, based on the defender

BLOCK PLAY

1. A feeder sets off the attack
2. The first receiver (F) chooses which player to pass to, based on the defender

3. Runner 1 runs out and behind runner 2, who runs out, and then in, in front of 1

GAME SITUATION

1. The first defender marks the feeder if they run, and then moves out to help

2. A feeder passes or runs from a ruck pad

3. The attackers use one of their moves to break the defence