The lead attacker runs at straight at defender.
Attacks runs into space, either on the left or the right, takes the tackle and then off-loads to the support player who should be running down the opposite channel to the first attacker (so if the the first attacker runs left the support player goes right).
Ball carrier should fix defender with eye contact and use footwork to open space between defenders. Attack the defender, not the space and use fast footwork to get in close before taking the impact.
'Sink' by bending knees slightly and rise after impact.
Move into space between defenders with held tightly through collision phase. With 2 hands (fingers spread) off load immediately with a controlled soft pass flat to the support player who cuts a line inward and accelerates onto the pass.
Repeat down channel ensuring support players realign themselves with depth.
in more ways than one
in more ways than one
Tacklers are aiming lower, so carriers who dip late put heads at risk. Teach footwork, a strong early body height and leg drive to win the collision safely.
The hooker's brake foot moved from trial into full law in July 2026. Here is how to coach it so your front row stays stable, legal and safe.
Your players can pass beautifully in a warm-up grid. Then a defender closes, their lungs are burning, and the ball goes to ground. Here is how to build catch-pass skills that hold up when it matters.