IS DEAN Ryan taking ‘Total Rugby’ – the legendary approach to the 15-man game by Jim Greenwood – to the next level?
Not only are we encouraging our players to ‘play what is in front of them’ but we are now mixing up the make-up and combinations of the players in our games.
In the past two games we have seen a starting 15 that omitted a specialist lock, while leaving the potential for less weight and height at scrum and lineout time. This seems to be increasing our ability to play quick ball and turn defence into attack.
Sir Clive Woodward and of all people Andy Robinson have been quoted in the past, showing their love and admiration of both Greenwood and his ‘Total Rugby’ approach.
In the Warriors of 2015, is Dean Ryan evolving the much-used philosophy and adapting the starting positions to those most suited to 15-man rugby?
‘Total Rugby’ demands technical excellence through preparation and attention to detail, which for those of us at the open training day, it was clear to see are key parts of the club’s approach to rugby this season.
Having seen a prop outrun a scrum half to score a 70m try and our top try-scorers being dominated by back row forwards, while maintaining some exciting backs plays, Sixways is starting to see yet another former back rower develop an entertaining and successful approach to rugby union.
The promotion of Sam Vesty to backs coach, with support from former Australia coach Jim McKay, can only mean our backs will be stepping up another level.
We have three months to perfect Ryan’s vision and turn our squad of talented youth into a Championship-winning team.
By Phill Mason