Mid-Block Shape Drill — Defend the Central Lane

Defending 4-4-2 or 4-3-3 block holds mid-block while attacking unit of 9 tries to play through the lines centrally. Three central gates (1-yard cone goals) placed in the defensive half — attackers score by playing through a gate. Defenders must funnel play wide. Continuous — reset from GK when ball goes dead.

• Central lanes closed — midfield line must stay tight and not dive into tackles that open gaps
• Ben: your energy is a weapon in this block but stay in your slot before you go hunting
• When they go wide, the near-side mid steps, far-side mid shifts — not a drift, a step

• Attackers permitted to bypass the mid-block condition by playing a lofted ball over the midfield line — defenders must adjust their depth
• Coach adds a striker for the attacking team to make the back four's life harder