In the world of rugby league, the strategic deployment of players is a fascinating aspect that often goes unnoticed by casual fans. Today, we delve into the intriguing topic of fullbacks and their restricted movement on the field, specifically focusing on the NRL teams that keep their fullbacks confined to one side during attacks.
The Curious Case of One-Sided Fullbacks
Imagine a game where the fullback, a player known for their freedom and versatility, is confined to a single side of the field. It's an intriguing strategy that some NRL teams have adopted, and it raises some interesting questions.
The Raiders' Kaeo Weekes Conundrum
Let's start with the Canberra Raiders and their fullback, Kaeo Weekes. During a recent game against Parramatta, commentator Luke Keary pointed out that Weekes was 'parked' on the left side of the field, despite being their 'best attacking player'. This observation sparked a deeper analysis of Weekes' role and the Raiders' tactics.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the contrast between Weekes' position in 2025 and 2026. In 2025, he was predominantly on the right side, acting as a foil for Ethan Strange on the left. This year, with Strange's State of Origin debut, Weekes was shifted to the right, a move that seemed logical at the time.
A League-Wide Trend?
However, Weekes' situation is not unique. In fact, it's part of a broader trend in the NRL. Data analysis reveals that most teams are now tending to restrict their fullbacks to a single side of the field. This strategy is especially prominent under certain coaches, like Ivan Cleary and his disciples, who seem to favor this approach.
The numbers don't lie. Since 2020, there has been a significant shift towards using fullbacks more on the right side. In 2026, a staggering 60.5% of fullback touches within 40 meters of the try line are on the right, with only 39.5% on the left.
Warriors: The Masters of Right-Side Dominance
One team that stands out in this regard is the Warriors. Under coach Nathan Webster, they have become incredibly right-side dominant, with their fullbacks often pinned to that side. In fact, Warriors fullbacks under Webster occupy the top four spots when it comes to the absolute percentage points between their share of touches on either side of the field.
This strategy is not without its critics. Some argue that it limits the fullbacks' impact and restricts their ability to influence the game. However, from a coaching perspective, it could be seen as a way to control the flow of the game and ensure a consistent attacking pattern.
The Exceptions: Roosters, Dragons, and Sharks
Not all teams follow this trend. The Roosters, Dragons, and Sharks, for example, have fullbacks with a more even split of touches on both sides of the field. This suggests a different tactical approach, one that values the fullback's freedom and ability to roam.
The Impact of Coaching
A detail that I find especially interesting is the impact of coaching on these strategies. The Warriors, for instance, had a left-side bias under Nathan Brown and Stacey Jones, but this changed dramatically when Webster took over. This highlights the influence coaches can have on a team's tactics and the importance of understanding these nuances.
Final Thoughts
The restriction of fullbacks to one side is an intriguing tactical decision that has become more prevalent in the NRL. While it may limit the player's freedom, it also allows for a more controlled and predictable attacking pattern. As we continue to analyze these strategies, we gain a deeper understanding of the complex world of rugby league tactics.
So, the next time you watch an NRL game, pay attention to the fullbacks. Are they roaming freely, or are they confined to a single side? It might just give you a new perspective on the beautiful game of rugby league.
