Match simulation quarters

Setup

1. Two teams of up to 18 on the ground (12–16 a side on a reduced ground), each with a bench of 2–4 and a marked interchange gate.
2. Four 8-minute quarters with 2–3 minutes between; the coach sets a scenario before each one.
3. A coach umpires, and a staff member on the boundary tracks tackles, inside 50s and turnovers for each side.

How it runs

1. Q1 is a straight game from a centre bounce. Q2: up by two goals with 4 minutes left, so hold possession and keep the ball out of the corridor.
2. Q3: down by 9 points, score twice in 4 minutes. Q4: play against a set zone press from every kick-out and kick-in.
3. Play is continuous with real stoppages, kick-outs and centre bounces after goals; rotate through the bench every 3–4 minutes.
4. At each break, 60 s of feedback on one stat and one decision, then the next scenario; the scenario side wins the quarter by meeting its target.

Coaching points

• Match speed means talking, setting up at stoppages and full-intensity contests, not a scrimmage.
• The scenario changes the right decision. Protecting a lead, hold width and kick to the open side; chasing the game, go long and direct.
• Rotate on time. Players come off at the peak of their work, not when they are spent.
• The coach-umpire pays frees for high tackles, slinging and holding the ball, so technique holds up under fatigue.

Common mistakes

• Intensity dropping after the first quarter.
• Ignoring the scenario and playing the same way every quarter.
• Rotations held up, so a few players stay on the whole time.