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Rugby

Kick Chase & Catch: Transition Under Pressure

Develop your team's ability to transition from attack to defence through an effective kick chase, while improving the catcher's decision-making and counter-attack skills under pressure.

Drill · intermediate · 20 min · 8 players · Sep 11, 2026

What you need

Cones, Balls

Setup

  • Area: 40m x 30m grid, with a 10m 'chase zone' marked at one end and a 5m 'catch zone' at the other.
  • Cones: Mark the corners of the grid, the chase zone, and the catch zone.
  • Balls: 4-6 rugby balls.
  • Players: 8+ (split into two groups of 4: Chasers and Catchers). Adjust numbers as needed.
  • Duration: 20 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Organise groups: Divide players into two teams of four. Team A (Chasers) starts at one end with a ball. Team B (Catchers) spreads out in the catch zone at the opposite end.
  2. Initiate the kick: The coach blows the whistle. The first player from Team A kicks the ball high and long towards the catch zone. The kick should be contestable (hang time of 2-3 seconds) and land between the 5m and 15m lines.
  3. Chase as a unit: As soon as the ball is kicked, all four chasers sprint in a disciplined line, aiming to arrive at the catcher just as the ball lands. They must stay onside (behind the kicker) until the ball is kicked.
  4. Catcher's decision: The designated catcher in Team B must communicate early ('mine' or 'yours') and either catch the ball cleanly or, if under too much pressure, knock it backwards or into touch. The other three catchers support by forming a protective pod around the catcher.
  5. Transition to attack: If the catcher secures the ball, Team B immediately transitions to attack, aiming to move the ball forward and score at the opposite end (or simply retain possession for 3 phases). Team A transitions to defence, attempting to tackle or turnover.
  6. Reset and rotate: After each repetition (either a tackle, turnover, or score), reset. Rotate roles: Team A becomes catchers, Team B becomes chasers. Ensure every player experiences both roles.
  7. Progression: After 5 minutes, introduce a second ball to increase intensity. Or, vary the kick type (box kick, spiral, grubber) to challenge both groups.

Coaching Points

  • Kick quality: The kicker must aim for depth and hang time, not just distance. A high, contestable kick gives chasers time to arrive.
  • Chase line: Chasers must sprint in a flat line, with the fastest player leading. They should fan out to cover the catcher's options (left, right, and behind).
  • Communication: The catcher must call early and loud. Support players must echo the call and organise the pod.
  • Body position: Chasers should approach with a low body height, ready to tackle or compete for the ball. Catchers should have their hands up early, eyes on the ball.
  • Decision-making: If the catch is not on, the catcher should knock the ball backwards or into touch to avoid a turnover in a dangerous position.
  • Transition speed: As soon as possession is secured or lost, both teams must switch mentally and physically. Attackers must secure the ball, defenders must reorganise.

Common Mistakes

  • Kicking too flat: The ball travels low and fast, giving chasers no time to arrive and making it easy for the catcher.
  • Chasing as individuals: Players sprint at different speeds, leaving gaps for the catcher to exploit.
  • Poor communication: Catcher doesn't call, leading to collisions or dropped balls.
  • Catcher hesitating: Not committing to the catch or knock-back, resulting in a turnover.
  • Slow transition: Players switch off after the kick, not reacting to the outcome.

Progressions & Variations

  • Progression 1: Add a second chaser who starts 5m behind the kicker and must sprint to join the chase line.
  • Progression 2: Limit the catchers to 3 players, increasing the pressure on the catcher.
  • Progression 3: Introduce a rule that if the catchers secure the ball, they must pass it to a supporting player who has run a support line.
  • Variation 1: Use a box kick from a scrum-half position to simulate a real game scenario.
  • Variation 2: Set up a 2v1 in the catch zone: two catchers versus one chaser to work on decision-making under pressure.
  • Variation 3: For younger or less experienced players, use a smaller grid and a lighter ball to build confidence.

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