Core principles

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Time and Space

The ‘principles of attack’ are completely aligned to the principles of possession which include:

• Win possession
• Go forward Support
• Continuity
• Pressure

It is however worth noting that there are four environments of attack. These are attack from:

• Set piece
• Phase play
• Kick receipt
• Turnover of possession

The four environments are very different based on where the off-side line is set. To that end, from lineouts the off-side line is 10m from the line-of-touch; from scrum it is 5m from the hindmost foot of the opposing scrum; from phase play it is at the opponents hindmost foot and from both kick receipt and turnover there is basically no off-side line – in short, the opposition can be completely on top of the ball carrier.

As a consequence, identifying and creating space is a major key to successful attack, notwithstanding the importance of “support” and continuity of play. In short, a team needs to know what their strengths are, and how they wish to attack from each of the four environments (above). Go forward through strong catch/pass is essential and often maligned. Fitness is required for structured support of the ball carrier and superior contact skills are required for success at the tackle contest thus ensuring continuity of play. Pressure is applied to the defensive team by reducing their time and space to defend the ball carrier and supports.

A thought that should be considered by coaches and teams – how can you control time and space and who is responsible for identifying space in which to attack?