Place five players holding contact shields in a horseshoe shape each about eight metres from the other. Split the remainder into groups of three, each group carrying a ball.
The first group sets off with the ball, passing it. The first man to the first shield runs into the shield with his shoulder down, pumps his legs, slides to ground, placing the ball an arm's length from his body (coaches argue about where exactly it should be placed - close to the body or an arm's distance).
No.2 of the group scoops ball up and passes to No.3 while running at the next shield. He hits shield, drives it back while placing the ball for his partner who picks it up and passes.
Meanwhile the second group has started its run.
At the last shield, the ball is placed. The next man picks up and passes to the third man and he grubbers to the goal-line for his partner to collect and score
(It adds a bit of fun and variety).
When they have mastered the placing of the ball, you change the drill slightly.
Now the first man before making contact with the shield must side-step before contact so that the shield carrier has to move to him to hit him, simulating the game situation where the ball-carrier should try to put the tackler at a disadvantage so that he can place the ball where he wants to and not where the tackler wants him to. Dominate the tackle!
Look to ensure that
- the ball carrier places the ball properly and at a good distance away from the contact area
- the player dominates the contact area and make a controlled and stable hit
- the support player does not overrun the contact area
- the player on the ground gets to their feet quickly to support the next phase
