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We've just taken an under 10s team from England across?

We've just taken an under 10s team from England across the border to Scotland and all match the Scottish coach was shouting no targeting the ball in mauls and tackles and a penalty followed to them. What is this?

Rugby CoachCoach

2 answers

ANSWERS

Doug FolanCoach, Scotland

Graham

reason being that we are saying no targeting of ball, is to develop tackle technique of below waist & also to encourage ball carrier to play either through offload or to get ball presentation developed . Targetting ball also fairly negative as it prevents ball from being played. hope this helps?

Doug

Rugby CoachCoach

Thanks Doug. I would agree that tackling round the legs should be encouraged and we do this.

I assume that targeting is the defending team ripping the ball. Having made the post, I've found a copy of the rules, and they completely neglect the maul as a concept in rugby which is far from negative. It was also the opponents tactics to form a maul and drive over for a try knowing the only way of defending is to get under the ball when in the process of grounding the ball which cannot be encouraged for safety of youngsters.

Also, given that the rules state that the defending team can compete for the ball once the tackle is complete, is it not arguable that by stopping the ball carrier, whether or not he is put on his backside, the tackle is complete and the defending team can then legally challenge for the ball? Any thoughts?