Slow start in matches
Table Tennis Match Strategy
Last updated 7 years ago
Muhammad Noman Asked 7 years ago
Hello,
I have identified a recent problem that in almost start of every match, I tend to lose first couple of sets. But then once my momentum builds up, I make a come back and win remaining sets to win the game. Sometimes from match point down.
But the problem is against high level players, this does not work and I easily lose the match in straight sets.
This has cost me a lot particularly the score line is either 3-0 loss against high level players or a 3-2 win against good players.
Any advise on how can I improve on that aspect.
Thanks
Noman
Alois Rosario Answered 7 years ago
Hi Noman,
Try to prepare for the match and make sure you are ready to play the first point as well as you can.
Some things that will help this are:
- Do a good off table warm up so that you are sweating before you start.
- Do a good hitting warm up. Go through some drills and also play some practice games before going out for your match.
- Take a minute or two to think about the tactics that you are going to use during the match.
Takes these steps and see if this improves your ability to start a match better.
Thoughts on this question
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Muhammad Noman Posted 7 years ago
Thank you so much.
The same thing happened yesterday. I lost the first two sets.
Will let you know the progress.
Regards
Jean Balthazar Posted 7 years ago
Don't let it become a psychological barrier. If you convince yourself that you'll always loose the two first sets, chances are that you will. Try to break that "habit" and focus on winning the first or second set, regardless of what happens next.
Muhammad Noman Posted 7 years ago
Thanks Jean for the advice.
I have pointed out that the club I play there is not much of warm up time and players start playing match right from the beginning. Even in tournaments, it is not a norm to do a bit of knocking before matches. Both things are perfect, psychological and some off table warm up so that things are better from the word go.
Regards,