To explain the building of space on the soccer field, we should discuss the development of the "Delta." The Delta is what I have used to rename the popular "triangle" concept. In the triangle concept, players maintain a formation where at least three players, specially if in possession of the ball maintain a triangular shape for the purpose of offensive (and defensive) movement. The reason I call it a "delta," is because the triangle is fluid and keeps changing as play progresses.
If a team sets up with the delta in mind, regardless of formation alignment (1-4-4-2, 1-4-3-3, etc.) one should be able to draw an imaginary line between three players and see the delta. Two deltas form a diamond so that on the field you should see deltas and diamonds everywhere.
You may have heard the term "Building Space." Building space has to do with a number of options. The obvious one is the old coaching headache of having players in too close of proximity to one another, the old "ants on a gumdrop" concept where at the U6 level all players chase the ball around the field en mass. Of course we see it in divisions above U6 and hope that at the High School level they have learned better. Having coached at all recreational levels and currently also the High School level, I can attest to the fact that I still find myself hollering: "Build space, build space."
Unless players learn the relationship of space in association with delta formation, much of the purpose of space building is just an exercise in futility. As coaches we must explain the concept of space building, not only as the distance between a team mate, but also to the opposing team player, AS WELL AS placement.
A player who is building space must learn to do the following:
Develops proper distance between him/her and another team mate, regardless if on offense or defense. Proper distance on offense is a distance where the player in possession of the ball can safely and accurately pass the ball while on the move. Proper distance if in defense means that an offensive player cannot easily get through the delta, and no open lane is available for them to get through.
Places himself/herself at a position where an open lane is always available to the possessing player when in offense, while maintaining the delta. The player also ensures that there is no opposing player between any of the connecting (imaginary) delta lines.
If players can maintain this spacing and delta formation, movement of the ball to the offensive goal area becomes much simpler and accurate. Patience is the key, as well as accuracy in passing and skilful reception of passed balls. .