Rugby Coaching Drills - Side Tackle

Explanation:The side tackle is used when the player in possession of the ball is running through a gap and gets horizontally in line with the defender. This is an important tackle because if it is timed right it saves the tackler having to chase the ball carrier down the field and slows the oppositions attack.

Description: For a defender it is very important that they keep their eye on the ball carrier, head up, and back flat. As they go to tackle they should place their head behind the ball carrier's legs, so that their cheek is against the ball carriers bum cheek. As they do this they wrap both arms around the players thighs.

The tackler uses their legs to drive up through the ball carrier, they must keep a nice tight grip, and try to fall on top of the ball carrier.

Other Rugby Tackle Drills: