The Ultimate Spladle Guide: Step-by-Step Execution, Setup Timing, and Escapes
Executing a spladle requires precise biomechanical sequencing. Rushing the roll before securing the far ankle often results in giving up an easy takedown.
Step 1: The Trap and Posture Control
When the attacker shoots a head-inside single on your right leg, clamp their head against your ribs with your right arm. Do not push their head away. Instead, overhook their neck and upper back, locking their skull tightly inside your armpit. This prevents them from squaring up or raising their forehead.
Step 2: Securing the Far Leg Hook
While keeping your weight draped over their upper body, reach your left arm through the attacker's groin or behind their far knee. Scoop their left ankle or hamstring. You must isolate this far leg before initiating any hip roll; without this anchor, the opponent will simply follow your roll and end up on top.
Step 3: The Stepover and Sit-Through
Now comes the critical stepover leg control. Take your free leg (the one they are attacking) and step it directly over the attacker's lower back or upper waist. Sit your hips through toward the mat, rotating your center of gravity under their torso. As you sit, pull the scooped far leg toward your chest while kicking your trapped leg straight through.
Step 4: Locking the V-Position and Applying Pressure
As both wrestlers roll across their backs, your hips must land higher than the opponent's. Plant your feet, hook your toes around their captured leg, and drive your pelvis upward into their tailbone. Lock your hands in a gable grip or secure their far shin. The attacker's legs are forced into a split exceeding 140 degrees, while their shoulder blades compress directly against the mat. Drive your weight back toward their neck to secure the pin.