Between the ball-handler and the goal behind him lies an area that is usually less well-defended than the area under direct attack. This "negative space" is useful in maintaining possession, relieving pressure, switching the point of attack, and creating shots. The reason is simple. As the ball is played forward, the opposing defenders tend to focus more on the ball than on the negative spaces on the field.

Bob Gansler, our former national coach, once had his team intentionally play a ball forward into a crowded area, to draw the opposing defenders to the ball and thus open space and reduce the pressure in other areas. The passer, instead of following his pass, stepped away from the "target" receiver who, after drawing the pressure, returned the ball negatively (backward) to the original passer. Since the latter now had a less obstructed view of the spaces under attack, he could change the point of attack to a more weakly defended area.

The Dutch call the receiver of a back pass the "window" player. The idea is simple: Play the ball back before playing it forward. 

Good teams use negative space with purpose. A window player receiving a pass back at the top of the penalty box will drive the ball at goal with a first touch shot or use the space created around the ball (really the extra time) to produce the killer ball through. 

In the attacking or high middle third of the field, the target receiver, usually a striker, will be closely followed by a marking defender. The target receiver will often be able to draw the sweeper out of position and flatten the back of the defense, creating opportunities for the dangerous through ball. 

Good teams intentionally use negative space to their advantage