OBJECTIVE:

Use the counterattack options from a kicked ball.

EQUIPMENT:

One ball per group.

GROUP SIZE:

A team divided into groups of five or six players.

AREA:

30m x 30m.

DRILL SET-UP:

In groups of five or six as shown in the diagram: A. supporters (6) B. receiver (1) C. defenders (5).

DRILL EXPLANATION:

1. Players at the start position punt a high ball to a player at position B who catches the ball.
2. Players at position A sprint out in support, receive the ball from the catcher at position B and become attackers, moving it back towards the tryline (the finish position).
3. The ball may be passed by the support, rucked and passed or handled in a rolling maul.
4. The players at position C act as defenders and move up three seconds after the ball is kicked.
5. Players rotate and the drill is repeated.

COACHING POINTS:

• The urgency of the support players to the ball carrier is vital.
• Attackers must have depth on the ball.
• Communication and selecting the correct options is a key to the attack.

VARIATIONS / PROGRESSION:

1. Vary the type of kick using line kicks or grubber kicks.
2. The player at position B becomes the opposition and stands in the tackle for as long as possible before the ball has to be released.
3. Two groups together. The support group can leave the try-line as soon as the kick is made while the opposing group remains and defends the try-line against the attack.