The side tackle is an effective way to put your opponents on their backsides.

The advantage of the side tackle is you can approach an opponent from either side.

Positioning yourself inside the ball carrier limits their options and increases your chances of making a successful hit.

Timing is key as more often than not, your opponent will be running at pace with the ball in hand.

So it is important you get the basics spot on to bring your opponent down and reduce the chances of injuring yourself.

Make sure your shoulders are above the ball carrier's hips.

That way you minimise any chance of injury to yourself.

Site the target - the ball carrier's thigh - and get ready to bring your man down.

Lower your centre of gravity into a crouching position and brace your shoulder for impact.

Drive with your legs.

This will give the necessary momentum to make a firm impact with your shoulder on the ball carrier's thigh.

Make sure your head is tucked behind your opponent's body.

Wrap your arms around the ball carrier's legs, grip tightly and hold on.

You've got a man to bring down.

Continue to drive through to complete the tackle.

But don't hang around admiring your work.

You have got a ball to recover.

Once fully tackled, your opponent must release the ball.

But remember, you have to get up onto your feet to play it, otherwise the referee will give a penalty against you.