Back with the Flight Mark

Focus

Forward line delivery.

Skills

Kicking.

Purpose

This drill gets players used to leading up, then making a second lead back with the flight as a second option if their first lead was ignored / covered.

Groups of

Ages

14⁺

Balls/grp

Cones

Distance (max)

100m

Setup
If you have 24 players, setup separate groups of 12+, otherwise form 1 group. Defenders (G & H) are optional, but have no defenders to begin with.
Step 1
(F) has the ball. (A) runs past for the hands, then looks downfield for options. (B) was leading upfield, but instead digs in, then leads back in the opposite direction towards goal.

This is ideal for a situation where the forward is one-on-one, but has lead too early, or the defender is playing in-front, or the defender has tracked right along-side them.
Step 2
(A) kicks to advantage so (B) can run back with the flight and mark.

(B) gets back as quick as possible and if possible, twists their body so they mark facing (A), as this is sounder technique

A chest mark is appropriate if they cannot twist around to mark. The player should lift their knee when marking to protect themself.

In a game this will take bravery and commitment, so they player needs to go hard at this contest
Step 3
(B) marks, then quickly kicks a short kick to (C) in the middle
Step 4
The same is repeated coming back the other way, (D, E, F) repeating the actions of (A,B,C)

Everyone moves to the station they disposed to
Step 5
Progression (optional): Introduce defenders (G & H) who must play 5m IN FRONT of (A & B) respectively, cutting off their lead forward.

These players can add as much pressure as you want, from token pressure to full contact if you want contested marking practice.