Classic SidestepKnow how and why the classic sidestep works. Understand how you beat opponents with this terrific rugby skill.What's a Classic one?Rugby sidesteps were most well developed and widely used at a time when much less rugby was captured on film/video.During the 1960's, 70's and 80's sidesteps were used more widely, particularly by Welsh players. Some were masters of the art. I'm using the term "Classic sidestep" to mean the type of sidestep I associate with players of that era. There are, of course, some modern players who do the same - but not many! Classic side step by Phil Bennett in Barbarians v All Blacks 1973 You want to beat players with a sidestepSo you have to convince them that you're going to do one thing, then do something different.I've said this elsewhere, but it is well worth repeating. Make sure your opponent knows EXACTLY where you're going. Help them. Make it easy! Then make sure you are somewhere else when they get there! The classic sidestep is ideal for this. Classic Sidestep - setupIt's good in many situations.Unlike the modern sidestep, ball carrier and tackler can be converging at almost any angle and a classic would be effective. Classic sidestep setup example..  You're the ball carrier. Your opponent is "tackler". You've spied out the land. You've noticed a weakness in the defence around "tackler". You're in their 22. Make a break and you'll probably get a try. Maybe the player is up out of the defensive line. Maybe the gap between tackler and the next defender to your left is just that bit bigger you believe you can get through it. Run a line that will take you past them on the right. If they don't tackle - that's just what you'll do, go past them. The tackler is reading the situation and running to a point where they will tackle you - taking into account your speed, direction, glances, waves, focus, weight distribution (the way you're leaning!). Everything! Make it a great performance. Make sure they know where you're going. Appear to be convinced you can get past. Classic Sidestep - Action!You've done a huge part of the work.The deception's complete. They "know" where you're going. You know where they're going! You've been assessing the situation constantly... ...now it's time for a final look. There are a few possibilities...
Classic sidestep action - looks like...  The tackler is already convinced your next few strides will take you to the location of the expected tackle. They're focused on getting there. They know they must get there or you will beat them. What you must do is avoid them! You'll have done it a million times before, either on the field or in practice! Before you meet the tackler... Bang....you cut inside, going left.They can't react. You're past them and into the next situation... And how do you go bang? Well, it's not by pushing off anything! See if you can work it out.... Hint... shift your weight to the left by unbalancing yourself. I know, it's hard - if it was easy everybody would be doing it! Experiment! try try try... Stay tuned! Return from Classic Sidestep to Rugby Sidesteps
|
