Most amateurs only focus on scoring the next pocket on the pool table to build a long-term strategy for the game. Although the physical skill is an important factor in the game, a sound defensive strategy can actually grant you more wins. The tips given below will help you develop a safe gameplay while facing a formidable opponent over the pool table.
Push away your opponent’s object balls
The main objective of your defense strategy is to make it difficult for your opponent to pocket his shots. Although you cannot allow the cue ball to hit your opponent’s object ball directly, you may carom it off one of your own object balls to make the hit legal.
Leave shots that have a high chance for error
While adopting a defensive strategy, try to use baits to make your opponent commit more mistakes. Long shots, for instance, have a much narrower margin for error so try and force your opponent to a position where he will need to resort to such shots.
Leave the cue ball close to your own object balls
If the cue ball is very close to your object balls, the opponent is forced to raise the butt of the cue and dramatically increase the chances of making mistakes.
“Hook” your opponent
Try and surround the cue ball with your own object balls so that your opponent will have a hard time aiming for his object balls without committing a foul. This is a great practice that most professional players routinely use in their games.
Free up space for your pockets
An important aspect of the defense strategy is to push your opponents to make mistakes while simultaneously making it easier for you to pocket your object balls. Free up the pockets and always score as soon as you have the opportunity.
Defensive play is popularly seen in professional games although it will not be blatantly visible as players are able to balance their strategy keeping in mind the final objective of dominating the pool table.
