In Rugby Union, the full-back conventionally wears the number 15 shirt. He or she is the last line of defence and usually position themselves slightly behind the rest of their team-mates when the opposition has the ball. They therefore have to be good tacklers but also competent at catching and kicking the ball effectively under pressure. A common form of attack in Rugby Union includes the use of the punt-kick or the "Garryowen" (a kick hoisted high for attackers to chase). It is the full-backs' job to attempt to bring the attack to an end by catching the ball before an attacker and either kicking it to safety, going to ground and recycling the ball, or running with it to avert danger. The Number 15, and any other player for that matter, can also mark the ball when catching it in their 22 (a section of the pitch 22-metres from each try line). This is done by jumping and making a divot on catching the ball and shouting "mark" to alert the referee. The player is then awarded a free kick. The full-back can also play an influential part in attacking, by running onto a pass of the ball with pace and assisted with the kicking game.
