Short kick-off variations – Manly
The above sequence is a good variation on the more typical style pop the ball high in the air for winger to catch short kick-off. Garrick does a great job of concealment with a last second inside-out kick.
It was only a wicked bounce and desperation by Ponga that prevented Manly regaining the ball. The kick went a little too far as well but it is a nice tactic that I’d like to see repeated.
I’d also like to see if Garrick could put some rotational spin on this kick so the ball bends back towards Manly (ie like the spin you see on attacking grubbers into the in-goal).
Later in the game Garrick tried another kick-off variation – driving the ball over the sideline on the bounce. This one too failed.
Compared to the concealed short grubber variation I believe this tactic is much harder to execute. With 3 defenders marking each sideline it must be hit with high velocity and accuracy.
Rugby League Strategy 