Northampton & England back row forward, Courtney Lawes delivers his latest module on ball carrying into contact & clear out

OUT TOMORROW…Bismarck takes you through the breakdown from top to bottom.

Forwards are conditioned from a young age to make sure that they get to the breakdown, but sometimes it is the worst thing they can do

When the perfect rolling maul is on the move it is almost impossible to stop. It is like discovering the secret of perpetual motion. You cannot tackle a player legally. You cannot get at the ball. There is not much of a front to drive against. The only option left is to…infringe.

The breakdown used to be owned by the specialist opensides but now every player needs to be an expert in forcing turnovers.

In each match you play, if you are doing really well at the breakdown you will win 70% quick ball and 30% slow ball. Therefore, the way you manage slow ball is vital to your chances of winning the game.

The least number of breakdowns you can have the better you will play but its a big part of the game and you need the skills to play there. This video will take you through a range of skill activities, identifying individuals roles and responsibilities at the breakdown.