Approach under control, protect the middle, and delay the attacker until the angle or support improves.
Setup
Create a channel with a scoring line behind the defender. The attacker starts with the ball and the defender begins between the ball and the line, slightly side-on.
Steps
- Defender closes down under control.
- Stay side-on and show the attacker away from the middle.
- Match the attacker's speed without crossing the feet.
- Recover toward the scoring line if beaten.
- Switch roles after five attempts.
Coaching points
- Arrive balanced, not out of control.
- Protect the middle first.
- Watch the ball and the hips.
- Delay is a successful action when help is coming.
Common mistakes
- Diving in from too far away.
- Turning the back on the attacker.
- Crossing the feet while changing direction.
- Trying to win the ball before the attacker makes a mistake.
Make it easier
Make the attacker walk or give the defender a head start.
Make it harder
Allow the attacker to use a second scoring gate or add a recovery race after a change of direction.
How to know it is working
The defender can slow the attack, keep the middle protected, and recover after a change of direction.
Safety
Keep tackles out of the first rounds and stop if players are sliding on a hard surface.