How Would You Play This?

[Black-Balled]

I have to admit that this thread is bothering me a little... Pool maxims ...are all well and good, but every rule has exceptions...

Exactly what I was thinking as I was driving down the road today...though I would have used "mantra".

Thus, I capitulate!

 

[Jude Rosenstock]

I have to admit that this thread is bothering me a little. Let's start with this observation ---- anyone who plays well enough that the four ball run out is a sure thing will also get out off the 6 - 8 combo every time. Which choice a top player makes here is virtually inconsequential, which is why I could care less how they would play this.

Jude has provided an exceptional example of how taking a dynamic view of the position can enable players of all levels to get out from here. That makes this an important thread that provides a good lesson. Pool maxims like "don't shoot a combo when you don't have to" are all well and good, but every rule has exceptions, and a nice example of a n exception has been offered here.

Would anyone tell the "C" player on their league team to go for the four ball runout? The "C" player is a heavy underdog to complete this runout, but if they simplify using the 6 - 8 combo and execute it, they're a clear favorite to run out.

I will add that I've often seen pros play combos in this type of position.

Nice thread, Jude!

Thanks SJM,

Actually, what's fascinated me with these threads has been the unbelieveable variety of answers, some rather adament ones, to boot.

Personally, I'd love to see the forum used this way far more often. I believe most pool players KNOW their options and what is necessary to accomplish yet fail to use this valuable information while playing. Instead of the plethora of threads about tip-choice, shafts and gossip, I'd love to actually just talk about pool.

Regarding your answer, I think you're 100% on the money. Personally, I feel comfortable getting out either way (as I'm sure, you do too). However, taking the combination assures that very little can go wrong. Running them in order SHOULD be routine for most good players yet there are things that can go wrong. The combination sets-up a series of center-ball shots. That's hard to ignore.

 

[Thunderball]

I have to admit that this thread is bothering me a little. Let's start with this observation ---- anyone who plays well enough that the four ball run out is a sure thing will also get out off the 6 - 8 combo every time. Which choice a top player makes here is virtually inconsequential, which is why I could care less how they would play this.

My thoughts to a tee.Well put.

Me..I shoot the combo...If I blow it (ball played but bad shape) can I not shoot safe?

 

[seymore15074]

I would shoot the 6, making sure to keep at least a little angle on the 7, then at least some angle on the 8. I would feel that if I can't run out those balls, then I don't deserve the game. Doesn't look that difficult.

There are at least a few things that can go wrong with the combo (but, of course, it doesn't look that hard either).

I'm with you on this, sure the combo is a game winning shot, but so is making the 6 and getting on the 7. Either way, execution is very important for this "seemingly easy" out.