Passing drill
Cut-Out and Loop
Combine the cut-out pass with a looping support runner to create an extra attacker.
- Time
- 15 minutes
- Players
- 5 to 10 players
- Intensity
- Medium
- Equipment
- Ball, cones
- Space
- 20m x 10m grid
- Positions
- Backs
Setup
A 20m x 10m grid, five to seven players in a backline spaced one pass apart, one ball.
How to run it
- The line runs down the grid and the end player throws a cut-out pass to the third player, calling it loudly as they do.
- The skipped player then loops around the third player to receive a short lateral pass.
- The ball carrier then cut-outs to the fifth player while the fourth player loops for a short one, and you repeat the pattern in the opposite direction.
- Support players must straighten and run slightly at the pass rather than flat, and must stay on the inside of the ball.
- Do 6 lengths each direction.
Coaching cues
- Call every cut-out pass loudly
- Straighten and run at the pass, don't drift flat
- Stay on the inside of the ball in support
Common mistakes
- The looping player running sideways rather than straightening, so no defender is held
- Not calling the cut-out, so the skipped player doesn't hold their defender
Related drills
- Switch DrillPractise the switch and dummy switch, which change the angle of attack against a drifting defence.
- Pressure Pass ChannelCatch and pass in one motion under time pressure while running.
- Wall Pass ReboundBuild passing accuracy and reaction catching completely alone, off any flat wall.
- Solo Halfback Wall PassGroove the scrum-half clearing pass off the ground in one sweep, with no partner needed.
- Pass ProgressionBuild a smooth, rhythmic two-handed pass from static through to running pace.
- Spiral Pass PairsDevelop the long spin pass that lets you move the ball wide quickly.