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Lock Positional Guide >>

Flanker Positional Guide

POSITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
General
Flankers form part of the back row of the forwards. They may play left and right of the scrum or ‘open’ and ‘blind’ of the scrum. Together with the number 8, flankers are the
essential link in ensuring that play maintains its movement forward - they retain possession, recycle the ball and give the team continuity. In defence, they are key players in winning possession from opponents.

Scrum
A flanker’s first role at the scrum is to push and add stability to the pack. If the flanker is on the side of the put-in, he should be helping to control the ball, if required, when it
has been struck by the hooker. Once the scrum is over, flankers should be first away to support play. On opponents’ scrums, flankers should add to the eightman drive and be up quickly to defend once the ball is played.

Lineout
The flanker’s role in the lineout is varied. One flanker, often the stronger of the two, helps to support or lift a jumper, whilst the other, often the quickest and best ball handler, stands at the back of the lineout to support the attack and sweep up. In defensive lineouts, the flanker at the back will look to put pressure on the opposition backs.

Defence
In defence, the flankers must pressure the opposition inside backs. At the tackle area, flankers try and disrupt possession by either stealing the ball on contact, stepping over the ball and driving off opponents (if it is grounded), or by picking the ball up.

Continuity/Open Play
A flanker should ensure that he is in support of play as often as possible. He should be a competent ball carrier, able to manage contact in the tackle area, and ensure that
possession of the ball is maintained.

PRACTICES
Scrum
• Practise scrummaging (on a machine and against opposition) whilst supervised;
• Practices should include individual work, and work with the front five and back row on: 
- Body position, dynamic driving position - flat back, legs in driving position;
- Back row moves and ploys.

Lineout
• Practise correct supporting technique for lineout jumpers (U16s and above);
• Practise blocking and binding techniques to protect the ball and jumper;
• Practise jumping techniques as per a lock.

Open Play
• Practise running with the backs and number 8 to learn:
- Backs’ timing and alignment;
- Support play and decisions at the contact area.
• Practise playing the ball before, during and after contact;
• Practise supporting the ball carrier - when to receive a pass and which running line to take;
• Practise falling on loose ball and playing the ball off the floor.

Contact
Equipment:
3 balls, 4 corner flags/cones
Aim: to practise tackling
Attackers A, B and C should attempt to score, in turn, between the flags at either V-W or X-Y.
Flanker, F, must try to prevent a score. Attackers should set off as the previous player either scores or is tackled, and should carry a ball.

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