Video analysis suggests Jonathan Sexton needs to rethink his tackle technique
Jonathan Sexton suffered yet another injury against Exeter last weekend which could potentially see him miss his side's upcoming interprovincial clash with Munster.
While it's clear that Sexton's defense has been a massive asset both to Ireland and Leinster, has it also started to become a danger to his long-term health.
The article is in no way meant as a scaremongering piece about the dangers of head injuries, as by now we are all more than aware of the possible future ramifications that repeated head injuries can have on a sports person, whether it be boxing or NFL.
A recent study from the NFL published in July by the medical journal JAMA stated that "Chronic traumatic encephalopathy, known as CTE, was found in 99% of deceased NFL players' brains that were donated to scientific research"
Yes, rugby is a completely separate entity but is still a sport in which participants will incur impacts to the head on occasion and as Johnny Sexton knows, some more than others.
His technique with regards tackling is often purposefully high in order to wrap both man and ball at the same time, slowing the attack down and on occasion stripping the actual ball for his team.
However, this technique has also led to Sexton receiving more than his fair share of head injuries, which surely prompts the question as to whether or not he needs to change his technique in order to prolong his already distinguished career.
Latest Comments
"Survive"? "Scare?" A bit dramatic. ABs always going to win, just a matter of by how much.
The Azurri were up for it though. As expected. You can bet they were planning for this specific test for months. Let's not forget they were pipped by ENG, drew with FRA, & beat both SCO & WAL in the Six Nations in Feb/Mar this year.
A mess of a match, good win, considering.
Go to commentsAfter you. And yes, that's exactly what Penney should do. Stat!! Unfortunately he has one year left on his contract.
Penney's Super Rugby win record was a low 23% before we signed him on. At the top was Razor at 84%. And true to form, Penney took us from a 7-peat to not even making the play-offs in ONE season. No excuses. LOSER. Thank God his contract is up next year. And hopefully Rangi might wanna throw his hat in for the job.
In the meantime, hopefully we can crack the top 6 this year in spite of Penney!??!
Go to comments