Marker Defence
Every coach will adopt his / her own style of marker defence, be it one marker, two markers, first marker chase, second marker chase, split markers etc. It is important to realise that all markers systems have their advantages and disadvantages.

You, as coach, must adapt the system that best compliments your team. No matter which system is used it is important that the following occur:
(a) Markers are on their feet before the tackled player. ie. Peeling correctly.

(b) Communication between markers and "tight" forwards in defensive line.

(c) Markers do not anticipate the acting half pass and leave too early allowing exploitation of the area behind the ruck (ie. tight spot).

(d) One marker chases, one marker holds, waits, fills defensive line.

(e} Markers make sure the stand square as not to give away a penalty.


In today's game against a well coached team, the marker will find it difficult to tackle first receivers hitting up on a flat pass 10 metres wide of the ruck.


Despite this, his role to chase is still important. The marker must rush the receivers inside shoulder pushing his run line wider and possibly causing him to run an angle away from the ruck.

This will "set him up" for your defence and help prevent a player cutting back into the tight spot area.


Above all, markers must maintain their CONCENTRATION.