Initiate the offensive attack by penetrating the defense to get in a goal-scoring position. Offensive attacking ability is essential to scoring points. Along with the forward position, the midfielder is expected to help put points on the board.
Guard opposing players by playing strong defense. Intercept the ball if possible and stop the progress of opposing players.
Display technical skills. This includes good stick work. Being good at throws, scoops and catches is crucial to being an effective midfielder.
Lead the offense by driving the ball down the field. Set up good scoring angles or switch the points of attack when openings aren't there. Good midfielders look for openings, or scoring opportunities, in the opposing defense. When those opportunities aren't clear it is often the midfielder who plays the ball to other other side of the field, switching the point of attack.
Assist the defense by marking the opponent in man-on-man and zone defensive formations. Marking refers to guarding an opposing player closely and constantly being aware of his position. Make strong tackles. This includes block tackles and stick tackles. Field hockey players are allowed to block tackle by launching their body into an opponent the same as in ice hockey. Stick tackling involves using the stick to take the ball from an opposing player while it is on the ground .
Maintain ball possession. This requires smart distribution of the ball. As play is moving up and down the field a good midfielder conducts the flow of ball traffic.
Distribute the ball to teammates. The midfielder has to play both offense and defense. In particular, the center midfielder has to make more decisions than any other player. He has to be able to play the ball out wide to the wing players as well as control possession and beat defenders in the middle of the field.
Service the offense. Soccer formations often have attacking midfielders and defensive midfielders. The job of attacking midfielders is to support the offense attack, along with the forward/striker position. Servicing the offense refers to knowing the team's personnel and knowing what player to get the ball to, and when to get it to him.
Hold the defense. Make tackles and intercept the ball when the opportunity presents itself. The role of defensive midfielders is to make bold defensive tackles that assist in keeping the ball at a midfield position.