Set Up
3 sets of 2 defenders each with 2 tackle bags placed 10m apart down 15m x 30m channel - 3 attackers
Attacker with ball in centre with 2 support players set 5m back to left and right. Attack runs at bag using footwork on approach to off set defenders fixes on one defender and smashes through hole
attack carries ball in 2 hands
off loads left or right
receiver repeats on next pair of bags
Ball carrier should fix defender with eye contact and use footwork to open space between defenders
attack the defender not the space
Use footwork to get in close before 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 controlled
soft pass flat to support player who cuts a line inward and accelerates onto pass. Repeat down channel ensuring support players realign themselves with depth.
in more ways than one
in more ways than one
The offload is one of rugby's most devastating weapons when executed well, turning a defensive collision into a second-phase attacking opportunity. This article breaks down the technique, timing, and training progressions coaches need to develop confident offloaders at every level.
Defensive line speed is the single most important factor in shutting down attacking opportunities before they develop. This guide explores how to coach your defensive line to push up as a connected unit, communicate under pressure, and deny the opposition time and space.
The teams winning in 2026 aren't taking risks - they're grinding out territory with relentless pick-and-go phases. Here's how to coach it.