Help Needed on How to Always over Estimate your opponent

[Andrew Manning]

Or maybe i should only play players better than myself?

What level do you play at? For C players, I'd highly recommend this. For B players, it's difficult to accomplish. And for A players, you'd better get in some practice playing lesser players, because that's what you're going to find yourself doing most of the time.

Whatever level you're at, I'd highly recommend First Break's Thursday night 9-ball tournament. A lot of good players show up, and it's slightly handicapped, meaning if you're playing a lesser player you have to give them a spot, but it's a spot where you're still supposed to win, which I think is good for learning not to take it easy on lesser players.

-Andrew

 

[Black-Balled]

...

If you can't find anyone better than you to play, I'd be willing, for your sake, to accept 10-8 from you in order to provide you a challenge and help you work on your focus.

Cory

 

[Black-Balled]

...I'd highly recommend First Break's Thursday night 9-ball tournament. A lot of good players show up, and it's slightly handicapped, meaning if you're playing a lesser player you have to give them a spot, but it's a spot where you're still supposed to win, which I think is good for learning not to take it easy on lesser players.

-Andrew

And the Naj never know...he might get Black-Balled, if he dares to stay up late one night.

 

[allanpsand]

Playing Philosophies - Table vs. Opponent

I see a lot of "play the table, not the opponent" comments but find that playing philosophy to be limited. When you can identify and play a runout, the table and your abilities/focus are the only things that matter.

But when you can't immediately win, table analysis must also include an understanding of the opponent's capabilities. If you know what types of shots he can easily do, and which ones create problems - you can make good defensive shots. For example, if he reacts to bad situations (i.e., off the cushion, long table, banks, etc.), you can shake his emotional control by leaving a series of bad shots.

When you know your opponent's strengths, you can play away from them. When you know his weaknesses, you can force him to shoot those situations.

Apply the strategies and tactics detailed the "Art of War versus the Art of Pool" and you can discover how to manage the game from above the table. The pleasure of winning is not always in direct runouts. Sometimes it is in helping your opponent lose.

 

[naji]

What level do you play at? For C players, I'd highly recommend this. For B players, it's difficult to accomplish. And for A players, you'd better get in some practice playing lesser players, because that's what you're going to find yourself doing most of the time.

Whatever level you're at, I'd highly recommend First Break's Thursday night 9-ball tournament. A lot of good players show up, and it's slightly handicapped, meaning if you're playing a lesser player you have to give them a spot, but it's a spot where you're still supposed to win, which I think is good for learning not to take it easy on lesser players.

-Andrew

I am very humble i'd say an A level in 9 ball, A++ in one pocket. I do good in tournaments, unless my 1st pick is a pro like that guy named BB in AZB-he will be glad it is a tournament-and not his wallet!! Tournaments needs a lot of time especially if i am going for 1st price!

I will agree with Cory, and when i raise the bet it hard for others to win with me. But that makes me glued to pool hall, and not ethical to leave when you up! So i think i will start playing race to 3 or something for higher bets..
Cory you are good shooter, i do not like 10-8, i like 9-8 & 9-7 when we meet.

 

[naji]

I see a lot of "play the table, not the opponent" comments but find that playing philosophy to be limited. When you can identify and play a runout, the table and your abilities/focus are the only things that matter.

But when you can't immediately win, table analysis must also include an understanding of the opponent's capabilities. If you know what types of shots he can easily do, and which ones create problems - you can make good defensive shots. For example, if he reacts to bad situations (i.e., off the cushion, long table, banks, etc.), you can shake his emotional control by leaving a series of bad shots.

When you know your opponent's strengths, you can play away from them. When you know his weaknesses, you can force him to shoot those situations.

Apply the strategies and tactics detailed the "Art of War versus the Art of Pool" and you can discover how to manage the game from above the table. The pleasure of winning is not always in direct runouts. Sometimes it is in helping your opponent lose.

Great advice. Thanks much.

 

[RRfireblade]

But when you can't immediately win, table analysis must also include an understanding of the opponent's capabilities. If you know what types of shots he can easily do, and which ones create problems - you can make good defensive shots.

Actually......

That is thee EXACT mistake most people make and the opposite of the mind set you SHOULD have. Sorry to say.

Playing the table and playing yourself IS the correct answer. A great safe is a a great safe against anyone.

Once you start settling or choosing specifically shots you think you can simply "get away with" , that is the beginning of the end of your growth.

 

[dareads]

Actually......

That is thee EXACT mistake most people make and the opposite of the mind set you SHOULD have. Sorry to say.

Playing the table and playing yourself IS the correct answer. A great safe is a a great safe against anyone.

Once you start settling or choosing specifically shots you think you can simply "get away with" , that is the beginning of the end of your growth.

I have to agree with this. It is helpful to know what your opponents strengths and weaknesses are, but it can also get in the way. Knowledge is power, but power in the wrong hands can be a bad thing.