Playing against players who crowd the table
Strategy
David Goldberg Asked 1 year ago
Is there a strategy or type of strokes to use against players who stand very close to the table? I find it frustrating to get the ball past them as they effectively take my shots early off the bounce.
Alois Rosario Answered 1 year ago
Hi David,
It can be challenging and frustrating to play against players that crowd the table, as they are able to take away your shots early off the bounce. The key to winning against these types of players is to be creative and try to keep them off balance by mixing up your strokes and spins. Try varying the speed, spin and placement of your shots to keep them guessing, and to make them think twice before making their next move. If you have a strong backspin, using a push with underspin is usually effective, as is a loop with lots of topspin. Using these shots will help to create a higher and longer arc on the ball, which will give you more time to react and it will be harder for your opponent to attack. With practice and patience, you will be able to find a technique that works best for you.
Also take a look at our tutorial on Playing A Blocker which I think will help you.
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Tactics Against Penhold Players
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With serves, I send them very long and fast to the end line, and vary placement. In open play, I vary the placement all the time, going for wide angles.
Short serves can also be good to bring them close to the net and then play a strong first ball.