Why the fastest players on the edge?, What distance between players in the defensive line?, How and when do the back field players interact? These are just some of the questions ex Samoa, Fiji Drua and Toshiba Brave Lupus defence coach Al Rogers answers as he explains the player positioning by the numbers in modern defence structures as he starts new series. These defence structures while illustrated in use at a professional level the can be used by all levels of the game down to high school.

What is the purpose of your defence system? Along with Edge Defence skills and employing multiple defence systems feature as Al Rogers’ Defence Systems analysis continues.

80% Ball, 20% Defender These are the key metrics for defenders when lining up their opposition. Al Rogers takes to the pitch to demonstrate how to maintain two shoulders available and effectively covering the ‘back door’ attack. Don’t miss this practical breakdown of essential defensive strategies!

Defending space and get the spacing right gets you more defensive width. Then as Al Rogers demonstrates add in line speed and you have a successful edge defence system. Suitable for all age grades to implement

The defensive principles remain the same it is a matter of adjusting and realign your position to accommodate the folding players. As Al Rogers’ St Pats Silverstream (Wgton,NZ) players find out. As Al suggests modify the drill to give your 9 insight into defensive line requirements and to reflect different match like situations.

Good footwork and getting in front of the player to take the attacking space away is Defence Coach Al Rogers’ tracking objective in his final Defence session Al with his St Pat’s Silverstream (Wgton, NZ) players presents a drill to develop this tracking.