How would you get shape on the 8 and 9 ball? I worked with this for a while. My best results came from bottom left on the seven ball but it was not very consistent. Too far up the table, to far down the table or scratch in the side. I am just trying to learn. Thanks.
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- Thread starter crappiecrazy
- Start date
First consider where you want to be on the 8 to get to the 9 where you are most comfortable with. Learning to play position for the ball after the next one is invaluable (beyond words).
Personally I would like a slight angle on the 8 so I can so I can draw back for the 9 but hit the rail so I don't scratch, over draw to the bottom rail etc.. I also want to play shape with a slight angle on the 8 so I don't end up on the wrong side of the 8.
With that in mind I would use just far right (inside) maybe a tip high and spin it 2 rails (if you count the bottom rail). I am coming into the 8 with a shot for so much of the way that it is hard for me not get good shape.
Personally I would like a slight angle on the 8 so I can so I can draw back for the 9 but hit the rail so I don't scratch, over draw to the bottom rail etc.. I also want to play shape with a slight angle on the 8 so I don't end up on the wrong side of the 8.
With that in mind I would use just far right (inside) maybe a tip high and spin it 2 rails (if you count the bottom rail). I am coming into the 8 with a shot for so much of the way that it is hard for me not get good shape.
In that position you will need to play area shape. Few people can control the cue ball well enough from there to guarantee which side of the shot they are going to be on if they try for only a small cut angle on the eight.
The way you have tried already is probably the best and it is certainly one you have to know.
One other way to play the seven is with center right english to hit the end then to the side rail to the left of the picture. Then hit the other end cushion to the right of the nine in the picture. You might hit the nine but there is less chance for a scratch than with the standard shot.
Yet another way it to use both end rails. With a little left english, come off the cushion to go to the other end cushion to the right of the nine and then you will be going straight at the eight.
You need to be able to play all of these. Try them all and then go with the easiest when you have the shot in a match.
The way you have tried already is probably the best and it is certainly one you have to know.
One other way to play the seven is with center right english to hit the end then to the side rail to the left of the picture. Then hit the other end cushion to the right of the nine in the picture. You might hit the nine but there is less chance for a scratch than with the standard shot.
Yet another way it to use both end rails. With a little left english, come off the cushion to go to the other end cushion to the right of the nine and then you will be going straight at the eight.
You need to be able to play all of these. Try them all and then go with the easiest when you have the shot in a match.
I like using middle left English on the 7 ball. If you draw, the cue ball might scratch or hit the 8 plus drawing the ball will require more speed where just using the English you can roll the cue ball. The right speed will allow you to get behind the 8 which should give you a draw shot to make the 9 either pocket depending on the angle on the 8.