Driving Maul Meaning in Rugby Union

A driving maul happens when a group of players bind together around a ball-carrier and push forward. This usually starts after a team catches a ball high in the air during a lineout near the goal. The teammates form a tight, powerful block of bodies that is very difficult for the defense to stop. The ball-carrier stays at the very back of the group to keep the ball safe from the opposition. The entire mass of players then walks or runs forward toward the try line as one single unit. This is one of the most effective attacking weapons for a team with strong and heavy forwards. The defenders must try to stop the push without illegally pulling the group down to the grass. For example, a team might catch the ball and form a maul five metres away from the scoring zone. They slowly drive the defenders backward until the player at the back can dive over for a try. It is a test of collective strength.