All-Man Lineout — Miss Play

Play family

Back Strike Plays at the Lineout

Starting platform

all-player lineout

Best / situation

Wide strike from an all-player lineout

Objective

Threaten across a flat backline so each defender must respect the attacker opposite before the ball skips wider.

How it works

1. Win ball toward the back of the lineout so the tail defender is occupied and chasing.
2. 9 gives 10 the widest, flattest pass the timing and skill level safely allow.
3. The backline stays threatening and relatively flat rather than drifting early.
4. Use a planned miss pass — for example 10 past 12 or 12 past 13 — to move the ball beyond the immediate defender.
5. Outside players continue with appropriate depth, support and timing rather than simply sliding toward touch.

Coaching points

• The source identifies passing, timing, angles, depth, support and coordination as essential.
• Backline players must be credible threats so defenders cannot simply drift off them.
• Practice against realistic defensive pressure to build timing and confidence.
• The miss is a tactical choice, not a requirement to force a long pass regardless of the defensive picture.

Variations

• The source treats “Misses” as a family: 10 can miss 12, 12 can miss 13, 13 can miss 15, or the team can design another supported version.

Sources & review

RPS creates its own pitch representation and concise coaching explanation from the cited material.

• Rugby Toolbox — Back Strike Plays at the Lineout