Pieces Of Eight - Tip Of The Week

 

Number: 67 Jim Tellier October 2012

 

TOPIC: Now What?!?!?!

 

CATEGORY: All Skill Levels

 

INTRODUCTION:

You get into a spot, where you KNOW that you wont have another shot --- maybe you could get lucky, break up a cluster, get perfect position. Whatever.

Bottom line isyou can see the writing on the wall. You cant run out from here! NOW WHAT???

 

 

TECHNIQUE:

Some people say shoot as many balls as you can, THEN play a safety. I disagree with that, for one simple reason: when you dont have a complete run-out available,

Sometimes its better to leave a ball (or balls) on the table as interference for your opponent. This is ESPECIALLY valuable when you dont have a good shot that would let you get

to the next piece of the puzzle. Think about making the game MORE COMPLICATED for your opponent --- even, at the most extreme scenario, if it means giving ball-in-hand.

Remember the idea of gaining the initiative. Especially in 8-ball, the player who has the dominant position is usually the winner, even though not necessarily the best shot-maker or position player!

PRACTICE:

Throw four balls out on the table. Shoot in rotation, lowest numbered ball first. After the first shot, play the best safety you can on the next shot.

If you werent 100% happy with that, TRY it again. After that, throw the balls out on the table again and repeat. FORGET about making the runout --- this is

About making the safety effectively! Do it over and over until you are more confident in your ability to play the safety.

 

Shoot well, and keep your opponent in his chair!

Capn Carom

ARRRR!!!! J