Mid Block Pressing Shape

Objective

• -Hold a mid block then spring the press
• -Stay compact between the lines
• -Protect the centre while pressing wide

Setup

1. 1Pitch split into thirds with cones.
2. 2Two teams, one holding a mid block shape.
3. 3Goals or target gates at each end.

How to play

1. 1The blocking team stays in the middle third until the ball enters a pressing zone.
2. 2On entry, they press aggressively to win the ball.
3. 3Swap roles after eight minutes.

Progressions

• +Switch To Score: two switches before scoring
• +Five Second Counter-Press: three seconds to win it back
• +Target Zone Bonus: only goals started from a pocket count
• +Add a competitive scoreline for the last round

Regressions

• -Switch To Score: switch earns a bonus point rather than being compulsory
• -Five Second Counter-Press: eight seconds and fewer opponents
• -Target Zone Bonus: widen the pocket zones
• -Simplify the area or the service until success returns

Variations

• -Switch To Score — A goal only counts after the ball has been switched from one side of the pitch to the other.
• -Five Second Counter-Press — On losing the ball the team has five seconds to win it back before dropping into shape.
• -Target Zone Bonus — Extra points for playing into marked pockets between the lines before finishing.
• -Overload Rotation — One team plays with an extra player for two minutes then the overload rotates.
• -Restart Realism — All restarts are played as in a match — throw-ins, goal kicks and corners rather than a coach ball.
• -Two-Goal Decision — Each team attacks two small goals, so defenders must decide which threat to cover.
• -Limited Touch Build-Up — Maximum three touches in your own half, unlimited once you pass the halfway line.
• -Flip the practice to the opposite side of the pitch

Common mistakes

• -Pressing too early and leaving gaps
• -Block too deep and inviting pressure
• -No communication about the trigger