The effect of technique on tackle gainline success outcomes in elite level rugby union

Tackling is a major component of rugby union and effective attacking and defensive play are essential for game outcomes. In this study, a number of pre-contact, contact and post-contact tackle characteristics that had an influence on tackle gainline success for the ball carrier and tackler were identified using match video evidence from European Rugby Champions Cup games. A total of 122 front-on tackles and 111 side-on tackles were analysed. For each ball carrier and tackler characteristic, the Odds Ratio and 95% Confidence Interval were calculated based on a gainline success outcome. A Chi-Square and Phi and Cramer’s V calculation was also conducted. A Chi-Square test then identified any statistically significant differences (p