How can i stop the big players in head on tackles.
Question
Hi my names Matt im a winger and im wondering how i can improve my pass receiving skills as i knock the ball on at vital times in attacks.
Answer
Hi Matthew, For your passing here is a drill that you could use. Get 4 players and arrange 3 markers on the field in an "L" shape. Place one player at the top of the "L" maybe 2 metres away you stand at the bottom of the "L" and the last player on your left or right maybe a metre away from you. the fourth player is a spare. The player to the left or right of you passes the ball while the top play sprints towards you, Get the passing player to delay passing for a second, keep your eyes on the ball, don't worry about the attacking player, start slowly, then increase the pace.
With your spare player, have 2 players attack you while you are receiving the ball. Make sure you always keep your eyes on the ball, watch the ball being released and keep watching it until you have it in your arms. Do the drill on both sides, static and moving, slow and fast. The passer can pass from the hips or throw it high or roll it along the ground to simulate a real game.
As for tackling big guys....try to cut down their attack by watching how they are attacking, if you can move up on them fast enough it will slow their attack, go low aim for the legs or ankles but move up fast on them. Maybe run at them on an angle so you force them out of play. if that fails talk to the player inside you to subdue the running player and double team him.
Tackling is a mental thing, take the size of the player out of your head and remember that he is as scared of you as you are of him, physically and mentally take him out of the game. Put pressure of him, be aggressive with him and force him to run away from you. Own your spot and don't let him mentally beat you.
Hope that helps.
Going pro
tackles