I've just been put in fullback (rugby). Any tips?

Question

I've just been put in fullback (rugby). Any tips?

Answer 1

You've been given good advice in the basics by  the previous answers.

Taking things a bit further .... One of my skills that I could do better than most was catching the ball on the run. The opposition player you have to watch most closely is the 1st.5/8. My favourite ploy was as a scrum was being formed with their put in, to leave a hole for him to kick to. As the ball is put into the scrum the 1st. 5/8 stops looking around and focus'es on the scrum. At that point move to the hole that you left for him to see.

It's a ploy that has led to many counter-attacking tries over the years.

But get the basics right first and dont try it till you're feeling comfortable with your reading of the flow of the game.From my experience as a player come back coach it takes about 3 games to feel at home in the position.

Good luck .... enjoy

Answer 2

Tough, tough position. I absolutely love playing there. If anyone breaks through it's your job to stop them scoring, that is always your first priority as the last line of defense. But you have so much more than that to do.

When the opposition bomb that ball up into your half you have to get under it and take it with the sound of their flankers and centres thundering towards you. When you catch it they will hit you, you have to be solid or you're dead.

If you get the ball in space, run like a b*stard. Go for the space but if there isn't any, tuck the ball up so it doesn't get ripped, get the head down, take the contact and drive those legs to make the hard yards.

Make sure you can get in support of the other backs when attacking to create overlaps but always be prepared to get back.

Make sure you know where you want people, order your wingers about when defending so that they provide you with the right cover.

Don't do what Percy Montgomery does and stand there doing your hair.

Answer 3

1) Don't be afraid to join the attacking line when you have the ball. You can easily make an extra strike runner coming through between the centres or centre/wing positions.

2) Try hard to make sure you position yourself properly....Not to deep/not too shallow. Try to stay central. Only allow yourself to be moved when you know your opponents will kick for touch and the ball might drop short.

3) Catch any highballs that come your way and give your forward s a target to form a ruck on.

4) As the last line of defence try not to miss any tackles!

5) Good luck....

Answer 4

Don't let high balls bounce,get under them and collect.If you are in your 22 remember the mark call.

Answer 5

Run like h**l.