Match tactics
Nomad asked 5 months ago
Hi Guys
I played a recent game against a skilled opponent who used a soft rubber on both sides which kept the ball low over the net. His tactic was to attack early after every short sidespin/backspin service from the middle of the table. It was difficult to impose my own attacking game as the short service was difficult to produce heavy topspin and so he could effectively block or even counter attck He was very good at moving quickly from backhand to forehand. I eventually slowed the game down by giving him long backspin. aggresive puhes and then taking the opportunity to dominate with my own attack from the return On my own service I gave him backspin which caused the ball to lift higher than usual over the net on his return from which I coud attack. Is there any alternative way you could suggest on how to deal with this stye of play,
Thanks
Dan Academy Coach answered 5 months ago
Hey! I think you did the right thing by trying to play longer aggressive pushes and forcing him to attack, these type of counter attacking players often feed off your pace and attacks so it’s good to make them open the play sometimes. Definitely serving tight and then playing your first attack into the body is a good tactic against these types of players as well, this stops them getting a comfortable first ball int the rally and moving you around and out of position.
I think they key thing is to try to mix up what you are doing and be unpredictable, so sometimes the short serves sometimes long and fast, and the same in the rally sometimes playing slow and heavy spin shot and sometimes fast and also moving around the placement. This stops them getting into a rhythm and breaks up their play well.
I hope this helps for next time! Dan 🙂
NomadThanks Dan
Good advice;
I will try and adopt all of these these tactics next time I play him and will let you know how I get on.
Alex
