Kidderminster Harriers have utilised a specific defensive strategy to combat corner-kick threats, according to The Guardian. The National League North club places a defender on each post and a third player directly in front of the goalkeeper. This system differs from the zonal or man-marking approaches commonly used by Premier League teams to neutralise Arsenal's set-piece dominance.
Arsenal have scored 13 goals from corners during the current campaign, per Sky Sports. Opposing top-flight managers have struggled to disrupt the blockers used by Mikel Arteta's side. Phil Brown, the Kidderminster manager, implemented the three-man stationary shield to ensure the goalkeeper remains unobstructed during deliveries.
The tactics helped the Harriers maintain a defensive record that ranks among the best in their division. Analysts suggest that the placement of a designated 'blocker for the blockers' could offer a solution for professional clubs facing high-pressure set-piece routines. The Harriers currently sit in the play-off positions in the National League North, having conceded 32 goals in 38 matches.
