Returning backspin serve with new light bat

Hi Coach, I had a lot of trouble returning a decent short backspin serve with my new whippy Stiga. Everything went off the end of the table. I did not adjust well as I couldn't believe how much trouble I was having. I had the bat open, but I probably wasn't holding it loosely as you advise. I was just pushing, and quickly lost confidence and didn't even try to topspin. I also probably wasn't low enough. I also struggled mightily against a reverse pendulum from a different opponent. On those I mostly missed wide. Should I try topspin on backspin and adjust bat angle on the sidespin? Thanks. 

Hi Thomas,

I think working on the topspin return is a good idea and yes try to adjust for the backspin and sidespin.

Also though, get the feel of the push return as this will give you a good feel for the type and amount of spin on the ball.

Keep the hand relaxed and importantly watch what happens to the ball after you hit it, even or especially when you miss the return.  This will give you good feedback to adjust the next time.