wincardona
Verified Member
Good question Doc. This is a 5x10 with tough pockets, with that understanding one should adopt the mind set to play the game utilizing distance as an ally. In this situation the 6ball bank is a perfect shot to employ that type of strategy. I would shoot the 6ball bank on this table against the best players in the world knowing that none of them will like what I leave, none of them.
Will I do the same on a 4-1/2 by 9? Not against a top player but I would against a player that doesn't like to shoot. This move is a strong move and shouldn't be undervalued, it apply's pressure and sends a message that you're not afraid to shoot these types of shots which in turn earns you respect and that's important playing anyone.
I have played quite a bit of pool myself on a 5x10 in Detroit, and have watched some of the best 5x10 players around play the game, players like Cornbread Red, Jersey Red, and many other top 5x10 players. Playing on a 5x10 with tough pockets is an up table game, play the cue ball up table and let anyone shoot, that's the way the games played on a tough 5x10.
Dr. Bill
Let me rephrase what I have in bold. Would I shoot this exact shot against a top player on a 4-1/2 x 9, probably so if I felt that I could hit the bank reasonably well. Would I play the same "up table" strategy against a top player? To a degree. Playing this type of strategy is not black and white there are many considerations one should have when opting to play up table with the cue ball in challenging situations. Such as ..how balls are positioned..score..pocket size..opponents mind set..emotional waters..and how quickly you want the game to be played..and more.
Dr. Bill