Backs

 

1. Full Back - The fullback is the last-ditch line of defence, standing behind the main line of defence. They must be able to tackle any player who breaks the first line of defence, catch the majority of kicks made by the attacking side, ensuring possession is retained, and also, as they typically position themselves behind the first line of defence, they have a view of the entire line and can be expected to give orders to the other defending players, alerting them to fill possible holes and weaknesses in the line. Their role in attack is usually as a support player to take an offload and keep the ball alive, or to provide an overlap or a different angle of attack in the centre of the field.



2 & 5. Wing - Generally wingers should be the fastest players in the side, with the speed to finish a movement or open the game up along the right or left side of the field. Wings need to be experts at taking bad passes as they often receive passes from team-mates under pressure. They also need to spread across the back to provide defence. In the last decade or so, they have been called upon for the initial few hit-ups after a kick. They must also drop back, usually on tackle 5, to assist the fullback in taking a kick.



3 & 4. Centre - Centres run along the middle just inside the wings, and work with the wings and stand-off in driving the ball forwards. They have to be dependable, fast and be able to hit top speed quickly. Their ability to handle and pass must be above average and they must be able to tackle. The job of the centre is to upset the opposition and make a breach for the winger to score. Centres play left and right side, partnered with their teammates on the wings.



6. Stand-Off - This player needs to be able to pass left and right accurately. He needs to be able to lead the team, and guide them. A Stand-off needs to be a good and accurate play kicker, needs to have good communication with the halfback and the centre-three-quarters, needs to be able to throw long cut-out balls and have the vision to create something with the outside men. This player needs to be quick on their feet and to be strong when running the ball like a back rower. They must also be effective in avoiding tackles and must have good coordination with the wingers and centres. Most are smaller in size, but strength is required.



7. Scrum-Half - The scrum-half is often one of the smaller players on the field. He must be quick of mind, nippy and be able to pass well. They must co-ordinate with the stand-off so the ball moves along the line to the wing three-quarters. The halfback is the player who feeds the scrum and runs around to collect it via the hooker. He is usually first receiver at a 'play the ball'.