Fullback (rugby league)
Fullback (or full-back) is one of the positions in a rugby league football team. Typically wearing jersey number 1, the fullback is a member of the team's 'back-line' (No. 1-7).[1] The position's name comes from their duty of standing the furthest back in defence, behind the forwards (8-13), half backs (6 and 7) and the three-quarter backs (2-5).[2] Fullbacks are therefore the last line of defence,[3] having to tackle any opposition players and regather the ball from any kicks that make it through their teammates.[4] It is for this reason that the fullback is also referred to as the sweeper or custodian.[5] Being able to secure high bomb kicks is a highly sought quality in fullbacks.[6]
Fullback is also one of the most important positions in attack,[7] handling the ball nearly every set of six and often running into open space on the field.[8] Therefore, together with the two half backs and hooker, fullback is one of the four key positions that make up what is referred to as a team's 'spine'.[9] Because the fullback makes the most support runs, players in the fullback role complete more very high-intensity running than any other position.[10]
The
Notable fullbacks
Fullbacks who feature in their respective nations' rugby league halls of fame are France's
See also
References
- ISBN 9781905540105.
- ^ news.bbc.co.uk (12 September 2005). "Positions guide: Full-back". Rugby League: Laws & Equipment. BBC Sport. Retrieved 11 July 2012.
- ^ Rob, Lancaster (6 October 2011). "Final battles". Sky Sports. Retrieved 16 July 2012.
- ^ therfl.co.uk. "Understanding Positions". A Guide to the Game. Rugby Football League. Archived from the original on 27 May 2012. Retrieved 24 June 2012.
- ^ Hall, Sam (30 Nov 2011). "Rejuvenated Denan Kemp puts hand up for custodian spot". Illawarra Mercury. Retrieved 11 July 2012.
- halifaxcourier.co.uk (15 August 2008). "Fax is Miles better for me: Greenwood". Halifax Courier. Retrieved 11 July 2012. - ^ Chris, Garry (26 June 2012). "Safety stats add up to Greg Inglis at Maroons fullback". The Courier-Mail. Retrieved 8 January 2014.
- Stannard, Damien (29 June 2012). "Brisbane Broncos goggle-eyed over high-ball threat". The Courier-Mail. Retrieved 8 January 2014. - ^ Kent, Paul (5 September 2012). "Evolution of the game: Fullback goes past halfback as NRL's most important position". The Daily Telegraph. Retrieved 4 September 2013.
- ^ Bryan, Andrew (29 June 2012). "Back yourself in Origin Dream Team". nswrl.com.au. Archived from the original on 21 October 2012. Retrieved 11 July 2012.
- ^ Read, Brent (11 February 2012). "Coach Tim Sheens yet to crack Wests Tigers' backbone". The Australian. Retrieved 11 July 2012.
- S2CID 15025826.
- RLIF. 2007. p. 9. Archived from the original(PDF) on 2012-11-14. Retrieved 2012-07-28.
- ISBN 978-1-876944-64-3. Archived from the original(PDF) on 2011-03-17.
- ISBN 9781869712648.