Ruck: take the space

Why use it

Teaches players the value of not just falling near the ball after contact, but going past it or create space above it, to enable team-mates a chance to win possession. 

Set up

A 5m x 2m box, four balls, a ruck pad. Play 3v1. 

How to play

Activity: Three attackers stand on a 5m line. Put three balls opposite these players on the other 5m line. A defender with a ruck pad faces the attackers, standing just behind the balls. The attackers stand still and pass the other ball between themselves. The defender tracks the ball. When you call “Ruck!”, the attacker places their ball on the ground and moves forward, as does the defender. The attacker rucks the defender away from the ball at the defender’s feet. The attacker looks to win the space above the ball while driving the defender back.

Development: Use two defenders, one behind the other, and take away the balls. Then, play as before – but, this time, on the call of “Ruck!”, the ball carrier tries to score. The front defender tackles them and the second tries to win the ball. The other attackers come in to win the ruck. 

Coaching points

• Arrive square and low, with the chin going over the ball. 
• Small, driving steps. 
• Both arms wrapped around the defender. 

Activity

1. The ruck pad-holder tracks the ball

2. The three players pass the ball along the line

    

1. Shout "Ruck!" at any stage

2. The ball carrier puts the ball down and then goes forward to drive over the ruck pad 

1. The rucker drives square and over the ball