HAVING read all the articles in recent issues of TRP singing the praises of Shaun Edwards, I have no hesitation in agreeing his defensive coaching prowess is second to none. However, the conundrums remain as to where the current change in the game with attacking flowing rugby can be contained by thedefensive mantra applied previously by Edwards’ coaching style. Is it time, as was for Warren Gatland, to acknowledge that every dog has their day and look for a newer younger breed with fresh innovating ideas which challenge the “old ways”. Let’s look at the Prem where most defences this season were failing to cut out the fast flowing attacking game. Attack the line and you would find the defensive line nullified with kicking over the top the in weapon.
Where does the defence coach go from here… the old ways, which history proves will eventually be forced to evolve, or a new, yet to be tried formula?
