How to execute the perfect side step:

When side stepping, you want to fool them into thinking you are going a particular way. Run at a diagonal to take the opponent one way and step inside. The opponent's momentum will keep him going in the original direction and get him off balance. Support is essential in case you do get tackled to give the option of an offload and for this, making sure your arms are free is essential.

If you're defending, keep your eyes on the mid-rift and don't get fooled into looking at the feet.