Nice run, JB!
But to go back-- I like the 1-ball bank. From this angle it looks like the shooter could easily use high left, which would be the correct english anyway. (Art, the speed that the shot will be hit with should negate any english applied to the cue ball, in terms of "turning" the 1ball) Neither the 1 nor the 11 would go, but the 1 could be left near the foot rail, which would leave a ball up, and a ball down-- with the CB up near the first diamond on JB's side. That's a much more difficult position for the opponent than are any of the 11-ball safety shots. ( The ending position will allow the incoming player to move the 11ball without much problems, maybe the banked 1ball could be a problem, however, the bank must be struck well)
And while the 7 ball should be a fairly good choice for a top player, lesser players would be playing with fire if they missed, unless they hung the ball. And the CB would be in premium territory for the opponent. ( Not necessarily, depends on what english and stroke is used with the shot)
Doc
I saw the possibility of the scratch with choosing the 7ball bank, it could of easily been avoided. There were basically three different strokes to choose from when shooting the bank. Follow stroke, 1/2 tip below center ball, or a draw stroke. Of course there are different speeds you can use with all the strokes mentioned, depending on what you want to do with the cue ball.
A follow stroke would send the cue ball between the 1ball and 3ball, depending on the speed of the shot will determine how far up table you would like the cue ball to travel.
The center ball stroke will send the cue ball toward the 1ball, the speed of the shot and where the cue ball is struck will alter the direction (slightly)of the cue ball.
The draw stroke depending on how low you go with the hit on the cue ball will send the cue ball toward the side pocket, or into the side rail. Speed of the stroke will also play a major role in "accurately" playing the cue ball.
If I were shooting the bank on the 7ball I would use a follow stroke with the speed to go 3/4 ways up table with whitey. (taking away the return shot on the 8ball if I miss) This type of stroke and speed will open up the 2ball cluster and also put you in reasonably good line for the 11ball to continue with your run.
If I were more certain on pocketing the bank I would use a soft low ball and stay closer to the 11ball, this stroke will run the risk of possibly leaving a combination for my opponent if I should miss. Staying closer to the 11ball will increase my chances on running balls, however, that comes with a price, possibly higher than some may want to pay.
In regard to the ending position with both the 1ball bank, and the 11ball (Rod's choice) The 1ball bank can work out good but it's a tougher hit by far than the 11ball safety play. However, the 1ball bank can also not work out so good, you can leave your opponent in a position to safely take out the 11ball or the 1ball, weakening your position. Not true with the 11ball safety move. The 11ball option will for certain apply pressure on your opponent on his next trip to the table and quite possibly for many innings to follow. Like I mentioned before, applying pressure by controlling the cue ball and developing a threatening position is a proven way to break down your opponent, in the long run you will certainly benefit.
There are more reasons than what meets the eye (playing excellent offense) that you can attribute winning to. When we win playing pool with a controlled game constantly applying pressure, we may not be winning impressively, however, we are winning effectively.
Dr. Bill
