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THE SCREEN (OR BLOCKING) PLAY
Rugby union is a sport that requires a combination of brute strength, tactical awareness, and skillful execution to succeed. One of the most important aspects of rugby union is the ability to launch successful attacks and score points. One way to do this is through screen attack plays.
Screen attack plays involve the use of a group of players to create a barrier in front of the ball carrier, effectively “screening” them from the opposing defenders. This allows the ball carrier to run through gaps in the defense and make significant ground.
The screen is created by using one or more players who position themselves in front of the ball carrier and effectively block the opposing defenders’ line of sight. This allows the ball carrier to run through gaps in the defense and create space for other players to support them.
Screen attack plays require excellent communication between the players involved, as they need to coordinate their movements to create the screen effectively. The success of these plays also depends on the timing of the run, the positioning of the supporting players, and the accuracy of the pass.
The beauty of screen attack plays is that they can be used in various parts of the field and in different situations, including set-pieces such as scrums or lineouts, as well as during open play. They are also versatile and can be adapted to suit the strengths and weaknesses of both the attacking and defending teams.
In conclusion, screen attack plays are a crucial part of any rugby union team’s attacking arsenal. They require coordination, communication, and precise execution to be successful, but when executed correctly, they can be incredibly effective in breaking down even the strongest of defenses.