Under valued rugby skills

This is the first insert on specific rugby skills which I feel are not practised enough and could be utilised more the game of rugby union. At the beginning of rugby training coaches are always shouting at props who have not yet warmed-up and are attempting drop-goals from the half-way line. Fair enough, they will never attempts such things in a game so get them doing laps then straight into the hamstring and glute stretches.

However, I firmly believe that if a player has a talent for a specific, unusual skill, it should be encouraged. For some people these skills come naturally, but time should also be given for players to develop such skills. At the end of every rugby training session players should be encouraged to practise certain skills, and these should include very specific, sometimes under-valued skills.


1. The spiral bomb


"Bomb" kicks or up-and-unders still play a big part in rugby union. A well-placed, high up-and-under can allow surrounding players to compete for the ball in a better position on the pitch. However, a skillful full-back who has good positioning, timing and catching skills will be able to catch a straight up and under no matter how much pressure he is under. Doing so is in his job description.


Usually the outside-half or player kicking will adopt an end on end up-and-under, allowing for more height and flight due to the back-spin of the ball. Also, in kicking the ball this way there is less surface area of the ball to target, so it is harder to miss-kick, and more accuracy is allowed.


The problem with this style of up-and-under is its predictability. The speed, direction and flight of the ball can be worked out, and for most top-class full-backs it is their bread and butter. They are attacking the ball, not chasing it, so they have the advantage in the jump for the ball if necessary and more often than not come away with the take. An end on end up-and-under in general has at best a 30% chance of success for an attacking team.


When players kick for length or position the spiral option is usually used. The ball travels faster more directly and a lower trajectory is created. Due to the advantage of distance, this style of kicking is often used when kicking to touch or clearing a defensive line. A spiral kick is easier to use for a kicker drilling the ball long and fast. However, if a spiral kick is used in the form of an up-and-under, a whole new problem weapon is created for an attacking team.


Kicking a spiral bomb is a very difficult skill, but it has been shown by certain players it is one which can be developed and performed consistently. It is difficult to control a spiral kick when it is used for height and not length, as the ball naturally rolls off the foot. However, if it is kicked from a higher angle and controlled well enough, some players can kick a turn a spiral kick into a far more affective "bomb". 

A spiral bomb has to be kicked from a higher point than a straight forward spiral kick to emphasise height, so the kicker needs more time. The angle at which the ball is kicked makes it very hard to control as its natural flight is a direct one. However, with skill and a great deal of practice, a spiral bomb creates an up-and-under which moves in the air, changes pace in the air and dips and swerves as it gets closer to the ground.

The spiral bomb is a ploy which is used a fair bit in rugby league. Danny Brough of Huddersfield and England has mastered the kick and is very accurate with it. Watch Huddersfield play in the Super-League and you are sure to see the opposition full-backs and wingers fall over themselves and fumble the ball at some point in the game due to a Danny Brough special.

This kick is usually used on the fourth or fifth tackile in rugby league as an option to reclaim another set of six tackles, but there is no reason it cannot be used in rugby union. Up-and-unders are used in rugby union to try to reclaim the ball, so why not make the percentage of error for the catcher far greater? If the ball is not caught cleanly, and in some instances a spiral bomb will not even be touched, the chance or reclaiming the ball is 50-50. With the added fact that the kicking support is moving forward the percentage of success is in fact more.

It is just one small aspect of rugby, but it can create another option for teams. A spiral bomb is definately a skill which could be utilised more in rugby union.

A Professional Scottish domestic league?

Since rugby went professional in 1995 Scotland has never really settled on the way to go about professional rugby, and the dynamics of the game at this level have chopped and changed. At first four professional teams were created by the SRU to compete in the Heineken Cup and European Cup.

These teams did not fare too well in the in the European competition, and when the Celtic League was formed, four pro teams went to two, with the Edinburgh Reivers and Glasgow Caledonia Reds representing Scotland in all competitions.  A few seasons later the SRU introduced a Borders professional team, and we then had the Edinburgh Gunners, Glasgow Warriors and Border Reivers. With the Border Reivers struggling and financial problems for the SRU mounting, the Borders representative team was then scrapped, and we now have Edinburgh Rugby and the Glasgow Warriors.

During this time, with the emphasis on the professional teams, the domestic league in Scotland hasn’t been able to develop. With almost all of the money being invested in the pro teams, the amateur clubs have struggled to grow in terms of support, standards and the league is less prestigious.

So, with the pro teams still not consistently competing with the top professional outfits in Europe, would an option be to concentrate on and invest in the domestic game in Scotland? If Scotland was to do so how would they go about it? Well here is one idea;

The amateur clubs become professional  

Scotland forget about the Celtic League and scrap the two current pro teams. The teams in the Scottish Premiership are all given financial support, and a professional league in Scotland is created replacing the amateur league.

The clubs have players of varying professionalism

With each club given equal financial support, and a salary cap agreed upon, clubs sign three different levels of players. Experienced professionals/Internationalists, professionals and apprentice professionals (Top players from the old amateur league should still be involved and the rest play in a second division with the incentive of gaining a professional contract). The pay for each player would depend on their value, but this should be taken into account, so certain players can continue other forms of work to a varying degree. This would also allow young apprentices to continue with University.

Top 2 teams qualify for certain European competitions

With the SRU agreeing the conditions, the top 2 teams in the Scottish professional league should be put forward for the European competitions. This would mean Scotland would still be represented in Europe.

Top half of the competition go into a play-off for a Scottish Cup at the end of the season

The amount of team s in this League needs to be thought through, as burn out for players must be considered. As the top half battle out for Cup honours, the bottom half do the same for a less prestigious prize.

Now, a lot has been left out, and there will be many people who will argue this is a ridiculous idea and not realistic. However, I believe a high quality professional domestic competition would benefit Scottish rugby hugely.

Communities would be built round the clubs again, and locals would get behind their local professional side. The clubs won’t have as much money as the 2 current pro teams, but players will get their worth and be able to make a living. At the moment the 2 pro teams do not get enough support, so why not invest back into the clubs where it all started?

There will be a salary cap for the players, but people should still be allowed to invest in the clubs. As the communities get tighter again there would be more possibility for investment and sponsorship etc, so the SRU wouldn’t be the sole financial aid for clubs.

If players want to play for Scotland they must remain in Scotland and play in the domestic league. This is done in several countries and seems to work well. If players want to leave, then they will have to forfeit their potential to play for Scotland.

This is just one option that could be looked into, and it is not a proposal or what I feel should happen, merely a thought. Any ideas on how professional rugby should continue in Scotland are welcome for discussion, and if the consensus is that all is fine and well currently, then great.

Any ideas, opinions or views please let them be knows at;

Twitter- @E4Rugby

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The Challenge Cup 2011

Whether you are a rugby union or rugby league player or fan, the Carnegie Challenge Cup is always a spectacle. It is not only a great final showcase, but the fact the competition is a knock-out tournament comprising of teams from every level of the sport makes it extra special. An 8 months long competition, the Challenge Cup starts out with grassroots and amateur clubs, and as the competition goes on, the standards of the teams entering increase.

The way the competition works allow small clubs to fulfil a dream of playing in such a prestigious tournament, and if they do well they have the opportunity to face some of the country’s top teams, and perhaps even come away with an upset. It is a great concept that ignites hopes and dreams for every club, and climaxes with a spectacular final at Wembley Stadium.

The tournament started in 1897, and 1929 it was played at Wembley for the first time, in an attempt to allow the sport to grow outside of the North of England. Since this first outing at Wembley between Wigan and Dewsbury, the majority of finals have remained here, however in 1954 a cup final replay between Warrington and Halifax at Bradford’s Odsal Stadium attracted Rugby League's biggest ever crowd in the UK with 102,569 people in attendance.

This year we’re back to Wembley, and the Wigan Warriors are heavy favourites to beat the Leeds Rhinos. Both teams have been amongst the top teams of the Super League for years and they are two of the main teams in the UK, but while Wigan are League current leaders, Leeds have won little more than half their games this year and lie in 6^th place.

But this is the Challenge Cup, and anything can happen. Leeds have been out of form for most of the season, and lost their last game to 12^th placed Harlequins, but their season does not reflect their ability. They can still produce the expansive, attractive rugby they are renowned for, and if they can do so on Saturday it will be an exiting game.

The Rhinos have some big names, and some big game players. Kevin Sinfield is a loose-forward who leads from the front. He brings people into the game, plays a vital pivot role and in many ways pulls the strings for Leeds. He is not a massive back-row forward, and can also play stand-off, but he makes up for it with footballing ability and intelligence. He is also able to kick goals from impossible situations, and the more pressure he is under the better he seems to perform.

Great Britain, England and Leeds star Jamie Peacock will add grunt to the Leeds front-row. A massive ball carrier, Peacock is a tireless workhorse, and one of the toughest players in the Super League. Kylie Luluai is another front rower for Leeds who will have an impact. A huge man, he carries the ball as if it was a peanut, offloads with ease and is very difficult to stop near the opponent’s line.

Rob Burrow is a veteran of the Super League and although only 5 ft5, he is a potent threat from half-back. He has possibly the fastest 5 or 10 meters in UK rugby league and can duck and weave through defences. He has come off the bench lately as an impact payer, but he should be starting in a game of this importance. Ryan Hall is a big winger who scores a lot of tries. He has not had his best season in 2011, but a couple of tries in the Challenge Cup could change all of that.

For Wigan, full-back Sam Tompkins is the player everyone is talking about. Not only is he the bookies’ favourite to win the Super League man of Steel award, but also to win the Lance Todd trophy for man-of-the match in the Challenge Cup. Converted from stand-off to full-back for this season, Tompkins has the best open running ability in the UK game. His pace and evasive skills are immense and wills score or create tries in every game he plays. He will be targeted by the Rhinos in an attempt to take him out of his comfort zone, but he is tough enough to handle it.

Thomas Leuluai is a half-back or hooker who has evasive running skills almost on a par with Tompkins. He is equally skilful with the ball as he is in his running, and will create opportunities for himself and the rest of the team. He is tough for his size too, and will pack a punch if needs be.

Winger Pat Richards won the Man of Steel award in 2010, and although his try scoring record has not been quite as impressive, he has continued to play well. He is a big man and will take cross field kicks with ease. He is very strong, hard to stop and when he sniffs the try line there is not much anyone can do to stop him. He will kick goals from all over the pitch, so if the game is close Wigan can rely on Richards’ kicking. In side Richard is George Carmont, an experienced, intelligent and skilful centre who is also a massive threat in attack. He is strong and quick, knows where the try line is and will take his opportunities every time.

Wigan’s big boys are front rowers Andy Coley and Jeff Lima. Tough as they com they will run hard, tackle harder and certainly won’t shy away from any tough stuff. Second row Harrison Hansen is big and strong and difficult for a team to cope with in defence and attack. He will be in amongst it with the big boys, and you can be sure his tackle count will be at the top of the sheet.

Wigan may well be favourites going into this Challenge Cup, but as already stated anything can happen. If Leeds fire on all cylinders or if Wigan don’t an upset isn’t impossible, but no matter the scoreline, we’re in for a treat tomorrow.  

A World Cup 15

With the World Cup just around the corner most of the squads involved have been named. If there was a potential World Cup 15, what would it look like? In my view, a bit like this;


15. Kurtley Beale (Australia)


Beale has all the essential elements of a world-class full-back, plus a little bit of something special about him. Comfortable with all the regular full-back duties of high-balls, kicking , positioning, Beale is also a huge threat in attack and has great footballing ability and vision.

14. Chris Ashton (England)

Ashton  gets my vote simply for his ability to score tries. He is a poacher, and if a break is made Ashton is on the end of it. He is constantly in the right place at the right time, and being strong, quick and evasive he can score tries from 5 metres or from 90 metres. Although not the largest player his defence is strong and reliable and his positional play has come a long way.


13. Brian O'Driscoll (Ireland)


A natural leader, O'Driscoll is one of the best rugby players in the world. His angles of running, pace and strength on the ball match his ferocious defence, and the openings he creates allow for opportunities for player around him. My choice for captain also



12. Sonny-Bill Williams (New Zealand)


Williams is still relatively new to rugby union, and is still learning, but even at this stage he possesses freakish skills and has the ability to do things no one in the world can do. A monster in stature, Williams is quick with it, and his passing game is getting better. His defence is scary, and more often than not when he goes into contact he will manage to offload the ball allowing the team to keep moving forward.


11. James O'Conner (Australia)


Like Australian full-back Beale, O'Conner is a player with great vision and skills. He has footballing ability to match his devastating pace, which means he reads plays and creates scoring opportunities not only for himself but for others also. Given an inch, he will score tries.


10. Dan Carter (New Zealand)


Dan Carter will control a game and make the right decisions in attack. He has the full skill-set of a stand-off, and the experience to know what to do and when to do it. Things happen in a back-line when Carter is in charge and he is brave in defence. If the opposition pay too much attention to the openings Carter is creating, he has the pace and evasiveness to finish also.


9. Will Genia (Australia)


Genia is a strong, compact and solid scrum-half. He reads the games very well, particularly in defence and communicates well between the backs and forwards. His passing, especially wide, is spot on and he will always find his first receiver. In the loose he is evasive and strong for his size.



8. Sergio Parisse (Italy)


A great ball carrier, and very strong from the back of the scrum, Parisse will always break the gain line. He is very skilful for a number 8, and has a good offload game with the ability to control the ball in one hand. He is a nuisance at the breakdown and very aggressive in defence.


7. Richie McCaw (New Zealand)


Another contender for the best player in the World, McCaw has the ability to stop an opposing side playing rugby. Whether or not he always does so legally doesn't matter, as he is so well experienced and educated he knows how to get away with it. He won't miss tackles, and when the going gets tough, McCaw gets tougher. In attack he links well and gets the balance of ball-carrying and passing right.


6. Heinrich Brüssow (South Africa)


Although perhaps a natural 7, Brussow is extremely effective as a blindside flanker. Brussow, as well as being quick is quick he gets through an enormous amount of work during a game and can snap up crucial turnovers, make brutal tackles and carries the ball well. He never stops and is a ball of energy which often infuriates the opposition.




5. Victor Matfield (South Africa)


Matfield is a South African Rugby Player of the Year nominee in 2001, 2005, 2006, and 2009, and has been one of the best locks in the world for years. A huge man, he does his essentials well, and is a force in the scrum as well as being a skilled line-out jumper. His presence around rucks and mauls is extremely effective, and he is ultra aggressive never taking a backwards step.


4. Richie Gray (Scotland)


Gray is another huge lock who imposes a presence on the pitch. Often devastating in the loose, Gray carries the ball strongly, and his size make him very hard to tackle. Extremely tough, Gray seems to revel in the rough stuff and seems to have all the vital elements and skills of a world-class lock forward. He is young too, and can only get better.


3. Adam Jones (Wales)


Now fitter and slimmer, Adam Jones is a dangerous man to have at prop. Jones is extremely powerful, and a solid scrummager able to perform a solid platform. His strength and power make him a handful in the loose also, and for such a big man he has a good slight of hand. 


2. Kevin Mealamu (New Zealand)


Kevin Mealamu is a superb rugby player who seems to just get better with age. Tough and abrasive he has been managed through the years so he has not burned out, and he keeps churning the performances out. A reliable thrower in the line-out and tough nosed scrummager he has developed consistent world-class skills for his position. He is a strong runner, hard to stop due to his low centre of gravity, and he causes problems at the breakdown often snatching loose ball. 

1. Fabien Barcella (France)


Another strong scrummager Barcella is relatively new to the International rugby scene. Barcella is renowned for his ability to destroy the opposition in the scrum and is ultra aggressive. He is extremely hard to handle due to his aggressive nature, and creates problems for teams all over the pitch. He is a  man you would not want to play against.

Home Nations World Cup Squads

The home Nations of England, Wales, Ireland and Scotland have now all announced their squads for this year’s World Cup. There are several noticeable inclusions and omissions, but the decisions have been made now and we will see if they were correct in a couple of week’s time.

In each squad there lie certain strengths and weaknesses, so disregarding potential opponents, omissions and inclusions what does each team have in terms of strengths and weaknesses?

ENGLAND

Strengths-

England go into the World Cup with a very ‘big’ squad. Backs and forwards alike are large in stature, and this gives insight into the tactics coach Johnson is likely to employ. A heavy team is can be a handful as long as they play the game in the apppropriate style and use it to their advantage.

With 5 props and 3 scrum-halves in his squad, Johnson has gone for a safety first option, and if more injury problems do occur for England, these decisions may pay off.

In young centre Manu Tuilagi England have an extremely powerful and dangerous weapon, and if given the chance he could explode onto the World Cup scene if given the chance

Weaknesses-

Size isn’t everything, and although injury has hampered certain selections, England’s midfield and even wide attack doesn’t look to have much guile or skill. Although Johnson has gone for the safe option at scrum-half and prop, Mark Cueto and Chris Ashton are the only out and out wingers in the squad in a team which have found scoring tries somewhat of a difficulty as of late.

Lewis Moody has been confirmed as captain despite ongoing knee problems, which will rule him out of contention for England’s last warm up game against Ireland on Saturday. Who is the next in line if Moody fails to regain fitness in time for the first game against Argentina?

The 2 main play-makers in the squad are stand-offs, so England could only have one ball-handling decision maker, opting for bulk and size in the midfield. At scrum-half Ben Youngs is returning from injury and not in his best form, and both Wigglesworth and Simpson are vastly inexperienced at this level. The scrum-half needs to drive the bus so to speak, but will England have a player able to do this?

WALES

Strengths-

Wales have a familiar squad, with players, for the most part, who have been together for quite a while. Included in this squad are outside backs who, when on form, are world-class performers. Lee Byre, Shane Williams, Lee Halfpenny and George North give Wales plenty of options out wide.

Playmakers Stephen Jones and James Hook offer different attributes, both extremely important. With 100 caps Stephen Jones has a wealth of experience and the ability to control games, while Hook can create moments of magic from stand-off, full back and centre.

Most of the forwards are household names in Wales with the exiting 20-year-old Tonga-born Toby Faletau offering an explosive and dynamic option in the back row.

Weaknesses-

Sam Warburton is a worthy captain after his recent performances, but he is Wales’ only out and out openside flanker option, giving the 22-year-old added pressure.

In the front-row, as well as loosing Matthew Reese who requires neck surgery, Wales have several key players with a distinct lack of recent game-time. Gethin Jenkins has not played since having toe surgery in January and Adam Jones has only played once since recovering from a toe injury. Will these experienced and talented player be able to perform or will Wales have to field a less experienced and weaker front-row option?

SCOTLAND

Strengths-

Like Wales’, the Scotland squad is fairly familiar. The forwards have a good blend of size and skill. John Barkley and Kelly Brown are big names in the back-row who perform consistently, and with Alistair Strokosch, Nathan Hines and Ross Rennie there are plenty of quality options and partnerships which could be played.

Scotland have a wealth of riches at scrum-half, each offering their own unique and specific style of play. Whether Robinson chooses his number 1 scrum-half or plays a type of player specific to the tactics of the game will be seen.

There are front row players who are physically strong and due to their experience they know how to play with each other. Scotland also have some sharp exiting runners out-wide in De Luca, Evans and Danielli who, if they are given the opportunity, could create some problems for defences.

Weaknesses-

The Scottish back-line has some good runners, but there is a lack of natural ball-players. Outiside the stand-off position, Scotland don’t seem to have many players who are natural playmakers and can create opportunities. This has been seen in the past and is one reason why Scotland have often failed to cross the whitewash as often as they should.

The stand-off players Scotland have are different types of players, and while Parks has been criticized for his running game, Jackson has a distinct lack of experience at this level. If the team are to perform then the stand-off needs to provide the platform, and without further creators outside them, the pressure playmaking may lie solely on their shoulders.

Although Scotland have experienced front-rowers, the replacements in these positions lack this, and in set-piece positions the pressure will be huge.

IRELAND

Strengths-

Individual players usually do not equate to a ‘strength’ for a rugby team, but in Irish captain Brian O’Driscoll it is hard to look past the inspiration he can bring to a team. Talent-wise, O’Driscoll is not alone in the Irish back-line. Jonny Sexton is gaining more and more skill and experience in becoming a world-class stand-off. The Irish squad is littered with players who when on form can perform mesmeric pieces of play. Names such as Tommy Bowe, Gordon D’Arcy, Geordan Murphy, Rob Kearney and Keith Earls are all in the mix, but the difficulty for coach Declan Kidney is in deciding who he picks and where.

In the forwards Ireland have rough, tough and experienced players. They have only gone for four props, meaning they have extra cover for the back row in the form of Donnacha Ryan who also plays a lock. The abrasive nature of the Irish forwards has the potential to combine well with the skill and speed of the back-line.

Weaknesses-

It is an argument for all teams, but the threat of injury is especially dangerous for Ireland. Due to the influence of the several key players Ireland have, losing just one of them could have serious consequences.

Although a big pack, Ireland could have some more explosive ball-carrying forwards to aid the backs’ go-forward.

Although again singling out specific players, the omission of Tomas O’Leary could play a part. Before Ireland lost to France last Saturday O’Leary was thought to be Kidney’s first choice scrum-half. The omission is a huge loss of experience in a pivotal position, with Conor Murray being chosen ahead of O’Leary who has just one Test appearance. It just means even more influence is put on the players of great experience, but again it remains to be seen if it will make a difference.

Is Mike Blair just a halfback?

In Scotland’s last preparation game before heading off to New Zealand, the scrum-half birth has been given back to Edinburgh’s Mike Blair. Now fully fit, Blair will be looking to impress against Italy tomorrow in order to gain the number nine starting place which he held for so long between 2006 and 2009.

Under Andy Robinson there seems to be questions as to who he feels is his first choice scrum-half is. Both injury to players in this position and form have obviously been factors, but between Blair, Cusiter and Lawson there are big questions as to who Robinson sees as his number one scrum-half of choice.

As mentioned, Blair was the go-to man for the scrum-half birth between 2006 and 2009, and his form and pivotal role saw him take over the Scotland captaincy from Jason White in 2008. He lead Scotland to some memorable victories in this time, none more so than his man of the match performance in Scotland’s Calcutta Cup 15-9 victory against England by at Murrayfield in 2008.

Competition for places is a good thing for a team, and Scotland certainly have talent in the form of players at scrum-half, but has Blair’s lack of consistent exposure to International rugby allowed him to fill his full potential?

Blair is a different mold of player to the other scrum-halves in contention for Scotland. A natural ball-player with a dangerous running game, Blair is able to suck in defenders and expose defences, and of all the Scottish scrum-halves he is arguably the most gifted footballer. Blair has played all of his professional career at scrum-half, but he in his younger years his skills were utilised in other positions.

At schools, district and amateur rugby levels, as well as scrum-half, Blair played at stand-off, full-back, and due to his pace even on the wing, all with a degree of success. The standard of play at these levels is nothing compared to International or professional rugby, but if Blair’s positional versatility had continued to be regarded and developed, could Scotland have benefited?

Of all the positions away from scrum-half, Blair was perhaps most successful at stand-off. He hadn’t been brought up to play this position and would still at times revert back to the fundamentals of the type of play he knew best, but with guidance could Blair have been groomed as a quality stand-off?

In recent years Scotland has struggled in the first receiver position. Players with all of the attributes of a world-class 10 have been few and far between, but again, with the right guidance and coaching, could Blair’s natural talent and ability of bringing others into the game have been made use of? The skills are certainly there in the form of a passing game, footballing vision, decision making, communication skills and defence.

Both Blair’s brothers, David and Alex have played their professional rugby roles at stand-off, so the skill set is clearly embedded. Genuine playmakers and ball-handlers need to be utilised in back divisions, and in recent articles I have stated that at least two should be available if a team is to function at a high level.

At the moment Scotland are lucky to have one natural ball-playing playmaker, and this has been seen in their difficulty in scoring tries. Scotland need players who create openings, recognise opportunities and make the right decisions. At scrum-half it is difficult for these skills to be utilised, so if Blair’s specific skills and versatility had been recognised as a potential stand-off option, not only could the scrum-half debate be made easier, but the stand-off options may be far greater.

At the end of last season Blair and fellow Edinburgh scrum-half Greig Laidlaw played a dual role, swapping between the nine and 10 position. In Blair’s own words he, “loved the role,” and the formation and set up seemed to work fairly well despite Blair not having played at first receiver in near 10 years.

At 30 years old, and with all the experience and high level scrum-half skills embedded in Blair it may not be possible for him to be considered as a stand-off anymore. It is a wonder though, could Scotland and Edinburgh have used Blair as stand-off/halfback, instead of and out and out scrum-half, and would a positive knock-on effect been provided for these teams’ back lines? 

The Matt Gitaeu Saga

Recently there has been much debate as to whether veteran utility back Matt Gitaeu should or will be in the Australian squad for the World Cup. The 28 year old, 92 times capped player has hinted on his Twitter account, that not only has he been omitted form the squad which coach Robbie Deans officially announces tomorrow, but he will also retire from International Rugby.


These statements are not fact and have not been stated directly, but Gitaeu's wording on his Twitter account suggests the probability of both. If this is the case then not only will Australia lose out on a player who can offer multiple options and roles, but it is an extremely premature end to the International career of a very talented player and a great servant to Australian rugby.


Gitaeu was part of the team who lost to Samoa in a World Cup warm up game on the 17th July, playing in the pivotal role of stand-off. Australia were lacklustre to say the least, and Gitaeu was not on his best form, but is he being made a scapegoat by Deans for this embarrassing defeat?


As stated, Gitaeu played in the stand-off position, didn't manage to create much, and admittedly missed a vital tackle on Alesana Tuilaga for the Samoans' first try. Since the defeat, Gitaeu has not had a chance to redeem himself and put himself back in contention for a place in the World Cup squad, and during this time Quade Copper has shone in the Tri-Nations games. But is this enough reason to simply omit Gitaeu completely?


The back-line Gitaeu played with was very different to the one which Cooper has had. Gitaeu had relative inexperience in his scrum-half Nick Phipps, and he was the stand alone play-maker, which comes on the back of a topical article yesterday which stated at least 2 play-makers or competent ball handlers need to be in a back-line for attack to function to its best.


When Cooper had the stand-off role, the team was in general stronger, and he had the instrumental play-maker James O'Conner playing on the wing and Kurtley Beale at full back, taking the pressure off him in having to create everything. O'conner also took the kicking duties, so pressure was relieved for Cooper.


These points are all matter-of-fact, and Cooper has played well and deserves the starting 10 jersey, but since the Samoa game Gitaeu has simply been 'dropped'. Gitaeu can play at inside-cente and even scrum-half, yet there has been no chance for him to show these options at the most vital time for a player to be putting his hand up for International selection.


There are other contenders vying for a spot, in particular stand-off/centre Berrick Barnes and scrum half Nick Phipps. With scrum-halves Will Genia and Luke Burgess already involved, do the Wallabies really need Phipps, when Gitaeu can cover this position? Barnes is no doubt a talented player, but so is Gitaeu, and there is no reason both players can go.


Whether he starts or not Matt Gitaeu should partake in the World Cup. If other players are on better form they will get the nod, but injuries, loss of form and experience all mean that if needs be Gitaeu would be the man for stepping in when and where required.


Gitaeu has more than just experience. He can still be still a world-class player, he is reliable and has leadership qualities. He has a left footed kicking option, as well as his goal kicking, and a running game combined with great vision. He is a a player who with the right players around him can make things happen, and there is no reason he should not be going to the World Cup.

One play-maker is not enough

One aspect of rugby which has become apparent in the all of the games preceding the World Cup is the fact that one playmaker calling all the shots in a back-line simply does not work. Having a stand-off who pulls the strings and makes good calls and decisions is great, but this role needs to be shared if a team are to be a success in attack.

The most recent example came from Saturday's games between Wales and England. England had one playmaker, Toby flood in their back-line in, whereas Wales had Rhys Priestland, Gavin Henson and James Hook. Priesland and Henson both only played part of the game, but the selection in itself showed Gatland's intentions. England opted for size in Tindall and Hape, but they neglected Flood's need for alternative options.

England had the bulk of possession, the bulk of territorial advantage for the majority of the game, yet failed to cause any threat in attack. They were in positions to score tries, yet could not convert, struggled to threaten the Welsh defensive line, and simply could not score a try. OK, Ashton failed a late fitness test and may have caused more danger, but England were exposed for their lack of creativity.

Although the most recent, this game perhaps isn't the best example, as the game was low scoring and there was not a huge amount of flair, but the topic is a recurring one. Look at how South Africa have played recently. There has been no structure, limited opportunities and the backs look like they don't know what to do with the ball. This is because they have been playing with one playmaker, if they are lucky.

New Zealand and Australia wiped the Boks out completely, and look at the sides they did so with. Australia's stand-off Quade Copper was never without a helping hand. In James O'Conner, he essentially had a stand-off acting on the wing. Kurley Beale is also a converted stand-off and he offers this playmaking stlye of play from the full-back position.

For New Zealand, Dan Carter was outstanding, and he was involved in almost every movement the backs made. However he too had players around him who are creative. Perhaps not described as a 'playmaker' Conrad Smith is a centre who can make things happen. He is unpredictable and unique in his style of play and helps a back-line blend. The New Zealand team is in general littered with ball players. Yes they do have big guys who play in their back line, but these guys also make things happen. Sonny-Bill Williams, as well as being one of the most intimidating backs in modern rugby, has the best one handed ball handling and offloading in the game. Again he may not be a natural 'playmaker' but he has vision, and can create openings.

A recent article read that Michael Lynah feels Toby Flood and Jonny Wilkinson both need to be in the England starting team, and this is a very interesting point. No matter the size and speed of players, chances need to be created, and against the top teams one man pulling all the string just is not enough. Other than at first receiver, it doesn't seem to matter where these playmakers are positioned, but teams should be looking to field at least two backs who can create things and make decisions creating attacking opportunities.

What Scotland need to do against Ireland- backs

Continued from forwards

Backs

Carrying on from yesterday’s piece, it’s time to look at how the Scottish backs need to perform if the team are to be in with a should of turning over the men in green on Saturday. If the pack can be dominant and take the game by the scruff of the neck, the backs need to be able to follow on and play their part.

Although the Irish are without several game-breakers in O’Driscoll, D’Arcy and Horgan they will still have a potent attack, so the Scottish defence needs to be will need structured, organised and aggressive.

Rory Lawson has stated how delighted he is at not only being given the scrum-half starting birth, but the captaincy also. Lawson is a gritty scrum-half who is strong and abrasive and provides good service. Whether the added pressure of being captain for the first time will have a positive or negative affect on his game, Lawson is not one to back down from a challenge.

Play wise, Lawson needs to do what he does best and provide great service for the backs. Lawson is not massive, but does have muscle and packs a punch, so he needs to be a constant nuisance around the set-piece and ruck area. Outside him he has a relatively inexperienced stand-off in Ruaridh Jackson with only 6 caps. Not only will Lawson need to help Jackson settle into this pivotal role, but he needs to be the voice of the whole team. Being scrum-half gives him an advantage in this, as his position enables him to communicate with both the backs and forwards. Lawson has a huge role for Saturday, but if he does it right, he puts himself in a great position for the World Cup in new Zealand.

As already stated Jackson is inexperienced at international level. Jackson really needs to be the link man, and decision maker in attack, and he needs to follow a structured game plan. He must dominate the first receiver role, as this will force structure to the Scottish game.

Take for example last week’s Tri-Nations game between New Zealand and South Africa. Absolutely everything came through Dan Carter, whether it be hit-ups, wide attacks, switch play or kicking, and he completely dominated the game. On the other hand South Africa’s Patrick Lambie was barely seen all game. More often than not a forward was at first receiver for the Springboks, and this direct route was easy to deal with. Even when a genuine first receiver was in place full-back Morne Steyne took the role more often than Lambie. This unstructured, uncontrolled play will do no favors to Scotland, so Jackson needs to go into the game knowing what the plan is, and do everything he can to get the danger men outside him involved in the game.

Jackson needs to be vocal, and not be intimidated or afraid to take control and make decisions. He has a very experienced inside centre in Graeme Morrison outside him, so this will take the pressure off. Morrison will need to work hard and provide a platform. He is good on his feet for such a big man, but he needs to concentrate on taking the ball right through the contact zone and not lose momentum, as every inch gained will make it easier for the forwards.

Morrison needs to be physical. Jackson is not only inexperienced, but is not renowned for his contact skills. Morrison needs to take charge of the defensive line and lead from the front, taking the pressure off Jackson. His close-in duties in attack will be vital due to his physical presence, and he doesn’t need to be fancy. If he is solid and secure opportunities could arise for the outside men.

It would be good to really see what Joe Ansbro can do. He has yet to showcase his full attributes yet at International level, and although we have seen glimpses of his pace, he hasn’t made a huge impact in his 6 caps so far. Hopefully the opportunity will arise for Ansbro to show his running skills out wide, and if he is allowed to play deep this will be easier for him to do. With Morrison doing the close-in, heavy duty work at the inside centre birth, Ansbro may well be able to stay in a deeper position, being the option out the back for Jackson after using Morrison as a decoy.

Defending at 13 is a difficult task, and in Kearney, McFadden and Trimble, Ireland have a back three Ansbro will need to be aware of for the entire duration of the game. He will need to work with his wingers in nullifying the threat from these three men, and this will be a big test for the outside centre and his wingers.

On Saturday Scotland have two wingers of the same build and style of play. Extremelly effective in attack due to their power and pace Nikki Walker and Sean Lamont bring a huge threat in attack. They do both have a similar trait in that they can often be individual players and attack on their own and disregard support around them. They will need to be more switched on and constantly interact with the rest of the team.

Their size and strength means both these wingers will be able to help Morrison provide a platform by coming off their blind-side wings. However, being so big means turning and retrieving kicks is harder for these men than smaller more agile players. With Jonathan Sexton playing at 10 for Ireland, they will need to watch for clever kicks in behind, and work extremely hard to get back and make the right decisions. Neither are known for their kicking games, so full-back Patterson will need to be switched on in order to provide an option to take this pressure off the wingers. In defense, although a big hit is great to see, with the quality of Ireland’s back three, the wingers can not afford to come out of the defensive line to make a big hit only to create openings out wide.

In full-back Chris Patterson Scotland have another leader, so he must take charge of the outside backs. Sexton’s kicking game has already been mentioned, and Patterson’s decision making when Sexton kicks is key in retrieving kicks; when to run, when to kick and when to pass. Patterson will see what is going on from the back so must be in constant contact with Lawson. He is a great cover tackler and this may be needed with the pace of the Ireland back three. Patterson is a World-class goal-kicker, and a close game may come down to him keeping his composure.

The Scotland back-line has a mixture of experience and inexperience, and they must work together to form a tight unit. If Scotland get opportunities to score in the backs they must do so, as opportunities have been squandered in recent games. An early try will give them confidence, and running rugby is not only enjoyable to watch, but enjoyable to play, so hopefully they will get the chance to do so. Again, these players have the first opportunity to put their hand up for a starting place in the World Cup, and we will see who takes advantage of this on Saturday.

What Scotland need to do against Ireland- forwards

Scotland have a big test on Saturday, in both sense of the word. Lead by inspirational captain Brian O'Driscoll, on paper Ireland are arguably the strongest team in the Northern Hemisphere. After a disappointing 2011 6 Nations tournament, they will be looking to go into the World Cup on the back of strong performances against France and England, but first they need to get past Scotland.


Scotland also had a fairly miserable 2011 6 Nations beating only Italy, but they ran Ireland close losing by 18 points to 21 at Murrayfield. If Scotland can perform on Saturday and come away with a win it will be monumental in their preparation for their World Cup campaign. Scotland have announced their team for this Saturday's encounter, so how can the players make sure they do everything possible to upset the visitors?


Forwards


In the front row, Geoff Cross gains just his sixth cap, but his lack of experience is made up for by fellow front-row men Alan Jacobsen (55 caps) and Ross Ford (48 caps). These three will have to provide a strong platform in the scrum set-piece if go-forward ball is going to be available to Scotland. The scrum really is the most important aspect for the Scottish front-row and it will be apparent if they have done their work from the first knock on.


Jacobsen is one of the best running props in the game. He carries the ball extremely well, and is very effective in the loose. However, at times questions have been asked about his scrummaging, so his set-piece needs to be solid come Saturday. On the other hand, Ross Ford is solid in the scrum and reliable in his throwing duties in the line-out, but it would be good to see him offer more in the loose. Regarded as one of Scotland's strongest and most powerful players he needs to put these attributes to use with strong carries and big collisions.


In the second row Jim hamilton adds significant weight and bulk. Again, this could be put to more use, and he needs to be offer more of an abrasive presence and generally be a nuisance to the Irish. If he does this, it will also allow Richie Gray to make use of his effective loose play. Gray is a real talent, and as well as his lock duties he can be a real threat to defences. If Hamilton works hard and helps provide a  platform, Gray will also have the opportunity to be in a attacking positions. This being said,  the two locks must control the line-out. They must disrupt the Irish line as much as possible, whilst securing their own ball allowing for quality go-forward play.


The back-row consists of three different types of players. The tough, abrasive Strokosh must get in amongst the Irish, and do so for the entire 80 minutes. He needs to be aggressive and the enforcer at the breakdown, nullifying any potential turnovers from the Irish. He too needs to take advantage of his physical presence and carry and hit hard.


Beattie is a great ball carrier and good footballer, but has blown hot and cold in the past. As well as his ball carrying duties he must get involved in the rough and tough. he cannot afford to drift in and out of the game or have momentary lapses as the Irish will take advantage of this. If the set-piece is of good quality Beattie will be a real threat from the scrum, and he should look to get the ball in his hands as often as possible in the loose.


Rennie will be raring to go, and hopefully he can put in a performance which shows his true talent as an openside flanker. He needs to be an absolute pest at the breakdown. Even if the Irish are recycling the ball well, he needs to be there pulling, pushing and doing anything he can to disrupt their ball. He needs to be everywhere, and attempt as many turnovers as possible.


The forwards really need to take the game to the Irish and be as dominant as possible. Apart from Hamilton, the Scotland pack is not enormous, so they must outwork the Irish pack. Aggression and work rate are key, and each player not only needs to play their specific role, but take responsibility in the sharing the workload. Ross Ford's experience needs to be utilised, and it is vital he leads from the front and acts as the voice of the forwards. These players have a huge opportunity in putting their hands up for a starting place in the World Cup, so let's see who provides the goods.




What the backs need to do, to follow......

Breaking a defensive line

Successful attacking rugby play doesn’t have to involve fancy moves, complicated tactics or extravagant long passes. Each team has their own style of attack, and each team has their own level of success in attack, but there is one movement or “play’ which, if done correctly, is extremely difficult to defend against.

In both rugby union and rugby league the use of “lead” and “out the back” runners has become the most useful weapon in attacking play. There are many variations and positions in which this “move” can be utilised, and it has become the core play in go-forward rugby.

Go back 20 even 15 years, and passing the ball behind the back of a player lying flat would be seen as crossing or obstruction, but rule changes and leniency have allowed it to come into play.

There are many names and terms for this move, but the basic explanation of how it works is simple. A player with the ball in hand will have a short pass option to a player running a flat, direct angle, and also another passing opportunity to a player behind this first option. The second options will be in a deeper position, usually running a wider angle, but as mentioned the angles and positioning can be adjusted.

To give an example, imagine a forward runner has been hitting hard, flat angles off a first receiver for several plays. The same set up remains, but another player (usually a back) is several meters behind the direct running forward. Instead of passing to the forward, the first receiver takes the ball to the line again, but leaves the forward, passes behind him to a player running a deep wide angle with the rest of the back line running off him.

This is the simplest example of this type of play, but there are countless variations. Here are some examples;

1.     The first receiver takes the ball to the line. As he does so the outside centre runs a direct, flat inwards line, while the inside centre lies deep and times an outside arking line. The two centres cross each other and if the timing is right the first receiver has the option of giving the ball to either.

A simple example, it puts the defence in two minds, especially the inside centre who has to be aware of the flat, hard running outside centre as well as the potential of the ball going deep and wide to an inside centre in full flight.

2.     A classic, common move in rugby is a cut, or dummy cut. This involves a ball handler running cross field and a teammate runs back inwards creating the option of a change of angle.

If the ball handler decides to dummy the inward runner there is usually an option to pop the ball to a player running ball direct, flat line. This can cause confusion, and punch holes in a defensive line, but if there is the option of an “out the back runner” behind the direct option, the defence have to decide which threat is more. Not only do they need to take into account the direct hit-up runner, but there is the potential deep “out the back” runner to consider.

3.     Often a dummy half/scrum-half will pick up the ball from a scrum or ruck and make a lateral run. This is already a threat for the defence to think about. Often there will be a forward offering the option of a short ball. This “pop” ball can be ignored, and the scrum-half can pull back the pass to a wide running first receiver with a options outside. Alternatively another forward can be behind this first option and slightly wider, offering a hit-up from a different position and angle.

These are three very simple options of how this “move” can be utilized, and they are only examples of countless variations. There can be multiple direct running players, and multiple “out the back” runners offering different angles, and there may be more than one opportunity for this “move” in one line attack.

The key to this working is the confusion and it creates in the defenders’ minds. “Do I need to stay on the direct runner, or should I be sliding out to get to the deep, wide threat?”

Drift defences have proved to be the most successful in modern rugby, and most teams utilise this strategy. The “up and out” pattern has changed defences for the better, but the lateral movement involved is what allows the “lead”and “out the back`” plays to be so successful.

In a drift defence, you want to be able to read the play, and as the ball goes to players outside, you are looking to move out to these players so no overlaps are allowed. What this particular attacking set up does is question the defender as to when and if it is possible to drift out.

The direct, inward angle being run can put defenders on their heels, and any hesitation will allow for gaps to open out wide. At the same time if the defender chooses to ignore this flat, direct threat and drift to the potential deep, wide attack, then a good player with ball in hand will recognise this and exploit the opening closer in.

The next quality game of rugby you watch, look for the utilisation of this attacking ploy. The better the angles run, and the more options there are, the more openings will become available. When teams get it right it is the most effective way of potentially breaking the opponents line.