Q: Hi, I just started playing rugby and I have been put at second row or flanker if there is no-one filling that position, I was wondering if you had any tips for Scrums or lineouts or just advice on the bone crunching tackles we all see you do on the pitch.
thanks, Dean
A:OK, firstly it depends how old you are as in mini rugby the rules are different-- for example younger players are not allowed to push in the scrums or be lifted in the lineouts !!
1>if you are allowed to push in the scrums important thing is to get a good grip on your props shorts as well as a good grip on your other second row --2> now get your shoulder nice and tight just under the props bum . 3>dont look to the floor look directly in front of you -- that will keep your back straight (you dont want a rounded back ) 4>make sure your legs are not to far back and keep everything straight and then on the call push as hard as you can
lineouts --- 1>?make sure you know where the ball is going to be thrown to 2> if you're playing flanker and you are allowed to lift make sure you get a good grip and get him to the top ( arms fully extended ) are quickly as you can 3> if your the jumper keep your eyes on the ball 4>jump as high as you can with your legs straight ( need to keep them locked after the jump so the lift doesnt collapse ) 4> dont snatch the ball -- keep those hands nice and soft and let the ball fall into them !
I hope I've been some help if you need any more in-depth tips then just write in again with more questions and I will do my very best to answer them
Ian Gough
Send your questions to tips@iangough.com