I'd play it the same way... It's the best pattern regardless.Ball in hand is a different proposition in this case because it equates to perfect position on a pretty tight landing zone. Maybe a realistic expectation for some here, but as someone a bit closer to the speed of the average banger out there, I’m looking at the odds…
Sorry but this is really overstating what's required for the E pattern. It does contain an element of obstruction, but it is extremely easy to get to the 7. The margin for error AND to end up playing the same shot is far greater than the other options. Those staying below the 7 are scrambling to recover in different pockets if they screw up and miss the intended shape. Those playing the E pattern simply adjust the amount of spin they use to reach the 8, without any doubt of having an angle to reach the 9.Given perfect position. E works best, but miss shape and you’re toast. By comparing the shape zone of E to A, or any other single pocket strikes me as a bit shortsighted. While I’m certainly playing for a specific shape, I’m also looking at the fact that if I miss my shape on, say A, I still have options with B, C, or D. The landing zone for those 4 pockets combined, is a lot more generous than that of E alone…
As stated earlier, even if you really over run the shape to E you still have the option to straight draw back up table. That's normally more comfortable a play for bangers then heavy follow required to play through the 7 up table.
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