Rugby passing and handling drill to open up defences

Bringing a hidden player into the line with an inside pass can open up defences. This rugby drill helps coach the movement and the pass required to do this.

There are two key factors to executing an inside slip pass effectively:

  • Keeping the strike runner hidden.
  • The timing of both the strike runner’s run and the pass to him.

The inside slip pass

Rugby drill to coach movement and pass to open up defences

In this rugby coaching drill the strike runner hides behind the initial passer for as long as possible before changing direction to accelerate on to the pass.

The player delivering the slip pass has to wait until the last second before giving the pass. If it is executed perfectly, he should get tackled, since the tackler should be fully committed to making the hit.

The pass needs to be a soft pop pass into the space beside the defender. If it is given too early, there is a chance of an interception, so timing is crucial.

The strike runner starts his run slowly and only accelerates as he changes direction. He runs at the inside shoulder of the tackler and angles away slightly as he receives the ball.

Get the defenders to vary the speed they move forward at, so the attacking players have to react to what is happening in front of them.

Click the link to subscribe to Rugby Coach Weekly and get rugby coaching drills, games and coaching advice delivered direct to your inbox.

Click the link for rugby coaching tips to get your players adding pressure to their passing drills.

Rugby coaching tips


Improve your rugby training skills. Sign up for a FREE weekly email, full of simple proven tips, advice and drills.

"Just wanted to let you know that I find your emails interesting and very helpful! Thanks very much!"
Jules Hydleman, Coach, England






Please note that Better Rugby Coaching takes your privacy very seriously. We will never rent or sell your email address to any third party.




Get our FREE weekly coaching tips email





Receive GREAT coaching tips to help you become
a better rugby coach, straight to your inbox!

Get these FREE reports when you sign-up:

  • My Five Favourite Training Games
  • 12 Handy Tools for Novice Rugby Coaches
  • Rocket Ball – Four ready-made coaching sessions
  • 20 Clever Ways to Improve Your Rugby Coaching
  • The Guide to Coaching Junior Rugby Players
  • The Guide to Coaching Senior Rugby Players
  • 11 Simple Steps to a Fitter, Faster Rugby Team

Please note that Better
Rugby Coaching
takes your privacy very seriously. We will never rent or sell your email address to any third party




Independent Coach Education