Rugby: Our basic defence strategy this year

Description

Up and out defence

Defenders move up and out sideways across the field as the ball is moved along the attacking line.

Coaching points

The defender operates an ‘up and out’ running line, where they stay on the inside shoulder of the attacker and begin to ‘drift’ only when the ball has been passed out of their channel.

This defensive system ordinarily requires the defender to make a side on, low around the legs type of tackle.

Teamwork and communication is essential. The defenders have to work in unison and if a player drifts too early, a hole may be created on their inside shoulder