Ask a New Question
Menu

As a rugby player what are your strengths and weaknesses in contesting possession( defence principle)

1 answer

As a rugby player, contesting possession is a crucial aspect of defense. Here are some potential strengths and weaknesses in this area:

Strengths

  1. Aggressive Tackling: A strong ability to tackle effectively and legally can disrupt the opposition's attacking flow. This includes techniques such as the dominant tackle that allows for quick contestation of the ball.

  2. Anticipation and Readiness: Being able to read the game and anticipate where the ball will be played allows for proactive positioning. This increases the chances of contesting possession successfully.

  3. Physicality: Having a strong physical presence can intimidate opponents and increase the likelihood of winning the ball at rucks or mauls.

  4. Ball Skills: Proficiency in handling the ball and understanding the laws of the game can lead to turnovers when challenging for possession.

  5. Support Play: Being aware of teammates' positions and supporting them in contesting possession can lead to more successful turnovers.

  6. Fitness and Stamina: High levels of fitness enable players to consistently contest possession throughout the match, maintaining intensity during breakdowns.

Weaknesses

  1. Overcommitment: Sometimes, a player may overcommit to a tackle or breakdown, leaving gaps in defense or getting isolated, leading to loss of possession.

  2. Poor Technique: Lacking proper technique in tackling or contesting at the ruck can result in penalties and missed opportunities.

  3. Discipline Issues: Aggressive play can sometimes lead to penalties if players are not aware of the rules governing tackling and contesting possession.

  4. Reading the Game: Difficulty in reading the play can cause players to be out of position when contesting for the ball, missing opportunities to reclaim possession.

  5. Fatigue: As the game progresses, fatigue can affect decision-making and reaction times, leading to decreased effectiveness in contesting possession.

  6. Injury Concerns: The physical nature of contesting can lead to injuries, which can impact a player's ability to consistently participate in breakdowns or defense.

Improving in areas of weakness while leveraging strengths can greatly enhance a player’s effectiveness in contesting possession on the field. Training, feedback, and experience all contribute to this development.