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.