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<0.05) for proficiency characteristics between playing position. For both the ball carrier and tackler, tackle characteristics that were indicative of strong and powerful tackle technique such as `explosiveness on contact` and `leg drive on contact` were effective for achieving the desired gainline outcome. Playing position had an influence on only two proficiency characteristics that were statistically significant for gainline success: `fending into contact` for ball carriers and `straight back, centre of gravity forward of support base` for tacklers. ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR
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