Full-forward vs full-back

Setup

1. Cone the 50 m arc. A feeder (K) stands just outside the arc with a pile of balls.
2. One forward and one defender start at the top of the goal square; the next pair waits in the pocket.

How it runs

1. The forward leads up at the feeder or back toward goal; the defender goes with them.
2. The feeder kicks to the lead: a forward mark scores 1, a defender's spoil or mark scores 1.
3. After a forward mark, the forward kicks back to the feeder and leads again straight away.
4. Six contests, then the waiting pair goes in; swap forward and defender roles each round.

Coaching points

• Forward: push the defender under the ball first, then lead hard into the space you made.
• Defender: stay goal side and on the forward's inside shoulder, eyes on the ball and the hips.
• Spoil with a closed fist from the side or behind; make no contact before the ball arrives.
• Forward marks with hands out in front, eyes on the ball all the way in.

Common mistakes

• Defenders push in the back or chop the arms instead of punching the ball.
• Forwards lead to the feeder too early and run out of space.
• Both players watch the feeder and forget where the goal is.