2nd
Row
Physically the lock needs to be at least tall and must possess dynamic
physical strength. Lock forwards tend to be long in the leg but
quick on their feet with the ability to explode upwards and across
in the lineouts. As a ball carrier the lock needs to be able to
run at gaps not defenders
GENERAL.The
lock forward in modern rugby is primarily a ball winner but is
also a ball user and a defender.
LINE
OUT. The lock forward is likely to be a key target for
the winning of lineout ball. Co-ordination with support/lifters
to secure own teams throw and threaten and challenge opposition
ball.
SCRUM.
The lock probably was so named because of his requirement to lock
the scrum. The lock as an individual must have an excellent scrummaging
technique which contributes to the total effectiveness of the
scrum unit; working closely with his prop, flanker, hooker, fellow
lock and No, 8. Various locking, wheeling, driving and ball channelling
techniques should be mastered.
RESTARTS.
Re-starts are an area for attention to detail and are often overlooked
in training sessions. The lock forward should have the technique
to win the ball high in the air from the opposition kick offs
from halfway and re-starts fro the 22m. The lock forward should
work with his re-start kickers to regain possession from his own
team's restarts from halfway and 22m.
PLAY
BETWEEN SET PIECES. Once the scrum, lineout or re-starts
are completed then the lock forward in the modern game is required
to participate fully as a ball handler, ball retainer, support
player at tackle ruck and maul. When the opposition have the ball
then the lock must play a full role as a tackler/defender - being
aware of his responsibilities as an individual player and as part
of the team pattern. The lock needs to adopt a low body position
while approaching on involved in contact situations
CONTINUITY/OPEN
PLAY. The Lock must be aware of "what happens next"
and must be able to read the game
TECHNIQUE
AND SKILL. The majority of the Lock's game is played
in close contact and practices should be organised to perform
skills under these conditions
Key Strengths - Individual
Has overall strength, but particularly in legs, buttocks, lower
back and shoulders
Good ball handler, especially when jumping to catch at arm's length
Scrum
Provides solid support for the front row.
Exerts power forward when required
Resists the opposition's shove
Binds tightly throughout the scrum
Line-Out
Wins own ball
Competes vigorously against the opposition
Loose
Catches the kick-off
Contributes to the team's attacking and defending patterns
Maintains a good body position in rucks and mauls
Drives dynamically into contact
Runs in support of the ball carrier
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