In the world of rugby league, the strategic deployment of fullbacks is a fascinating aspect that often goes unnoticed by casual viewers. This article delves into the intriguing practice of restricting fullbacks to one side of the field in attack, with a focus on the NRL. The analysis reveals a clear trend: most NRL clubs tend to park their fullback on a single side of the field this season. The study, which examined the receipts of every game played by a fullback in the NRL this decade, found that the majority of teams prefer to use their fullback on the right side. This preference is evident in the numbers, with 60.5% of fullback touches within 40 metres of the tryline occurring on the right side, compared to just 39.5% on the left. The analysis also highlights the most single-sided fullbacks, with Taine Tuaupiki of the Warriors topping the list, followed by Dylan Edwards of the Panthers. The article further explores the coaching influence on this strategy, noting that Ivan Cleary and his disciples, such as Cameron Ciraldo, have embraced this approach. The study concludes by emphasizing the importance of this strategic deployment of fullbacks in the modern game of rugby league.
