LTPDst3cover.qxd (Page 1) - Scottish Rugby Union

THE MAULA maul typically develops from a contact situation where the ball carrier is held by anopponent on but is not brought to ground. It can develop into an effective method ofretaining or contesting possession. It can be a dynamic attacking platform which pulls indefenders creating space in other areas. On formation of the maul, offside lines are created.Law definitionA maul begins when a player carrying the ball is held by one or more opponents, and one ormore of the ball carrier's team mates binds on the ball carrier. A maul therefore consists,when it begins, of at least three players, all on their feet; the ball carrier and one player fromeach team. All the players involved must be caught in or bound to the maul and must be ontheir feet and moving towards a goal line. Open play has ended.Key points. Maintain forward momentum making theball available to team mates. First arriving support player should attemptto secure possession by ripping the ball ordriving beyond the ball. All players should be bound and shouldersshould be below hips.. Drive forward in balanced, dynamicposition with straight backs. As additional support arrives move the ball,or person on the ball, further back fromopposition. Once the ball is at the back, the ball carriercan either continue driving, leave the maulor pass to a team mate.97