Lineout · 15s · play

Lineout — Shift Option

The lineout begins with the same Shift picture, but the first receiver pops to the player coming around rather than driving, changing the point of attack after the defence reacts to the shift.

RPS Reviewed · Source-backed rugby play

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Play family

Lineout Plans

Starting platform

lineout

Best / situation

Variation from the Normal–Shift lineout plan

Objective

Show the shift drive, then move the ball to the player coming around instead of completing the drive.

How it works

  1. Win the planned lineout ball and establish the same initial Shift picture.
  2. The ripper steps laterally away from the lineout as the supporting forwards present the drive threat.
  3. Instead of completing the drive, the ball carrier pops to the designated player coming around.
  4. The new carrier attacks from the shifted point with support reconnecting behind the ball.

Coaching points

  • The initial Shift picture must remain credible.
  • The pop receiver arrives late enough to react to the defence rather than overrun the ball.
  • Keep support connected after the transfer.
  • Treat the named call as source-specific terminology, not universal rugby terminology.

Variations

  • The source defines this specifically as the Shift variation where the first receiver pops to the player coming around instead of driving.

Sources & review

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