This requires certain skill and tactical requirements from the boys. In terms of skill, they need to be scanning the defensive line, ball carriers need to be drawing the defenders and making split second decisions about whether to off-load to a support player or take the ball to ground. Tactically, it means playing through the phases of play, being aware of the space and when to spread the ball or keep it tight.
This is a lot for a young rugby player to think about! For that reason, it was satisfying to see the boys start to play this kind of rugby for the first time this term. It demonstrates more thought and a growing level of confidence. We are looking forward to watching this style of play in action as the U10s play Claremont Fan Court on Friday and the U8s and U9s face City of London Freemen’s on Friday. The U11s will have their first fixture the following Monday against Newland House.