As coaches, players and fans we can easily overlook the evolutionary process of the game. The current tendency towards kicking away possession is a reminder of how quickly the game can change.
Mark Ella, Australia and Randwick Rugby Club were the catalyst for a shift in back-play. They pioneered the Flat Attack, with Ella as the main protaganist.
Ella played tight to his 9, fixing the opposition backrow and forcing them to defend at a dificult angle. He then encouraged his support runners to play flat off him, allowing him, or any passer, to quickly re-enter the game after off-loading a pass.
“Having delivered his pass, he invariably, it seems to me, keeps moving, getting himself between centre and wing on an extended loop – or even outside his wing! Such off-the-ball running is a true sign of greatness…” - Gareth Edwards
As a 10, Ella was the master, not only at creating space for his outside teammates by drawing and fixing the defence, but at following his pass. The clip shows his innate ability to pick a spot for support and finish the move.
His style of play is relevant to today’s debate on kicking.
If teams were more adept and willing to play flat and keep the ball alive, thereby preventing the ball from going to deck, we would see less turnovers and more attacking play. This requires attacking will, better handling and a work rate typified by Ella. Individuals and teams can change the direction of the game. Take a look at the Wallaby ‘84 Grand Slam side. Their lines of movement and are still applied at every level of the game today.


