Defensive Opponent
Strategy
mohsen dessouki Asked 13 years ago
Hi Coach
My opponent is a defensive ,close to table player. He has long hands and block all my top spins from everywhere on the table. He is perfect in pushing and ball placing. His weakness is footwork and top spin .
Would you please give me some tips.
Thanks and best regards
Mohsen
Alois Rosario Answered 13 years ago
Hi Mohsen,
I am guessing he used long pimples on the backhand side. These types of players can be frustrating. You need to try to get them wide to either side. Sart by placing the ball around. If he favours his backhand and goes too far over to the forehand side to play backhands then he will leave a gap on his backhand side.
If he is using long pimples, you need to push or serve with backspin to the backhand and then attack the next ball. See which side he is better at blocking with and then expose the other side. You don't need to hit the ball too fast as he is probably relying on your pace to outposition you.
Last night we filmed a Match Strategy Course video on this type of player. As you are a Premium Member you will be able to see it in a few weeks as part of the Match Strategy Course on the Premium Lessons. Watch out for it.
Recommended Video
Tactics Against Penhold Players
When playing penhold players it is important to remember to first analyse your opponent as you would if they used any grip. What are their strengths and weaknesses? A common weakness of penhold players is their forehand block especially against a slow spinny topspin. Their backhand may be a weakness if they use the traditional style, or you may wish to explore the crossover point if they are using the reverse penhold backhand.
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mohsen dessouki Posted 13 years ago
thanks Alois
He uses dead rubbers on both sides . he is master in placing without power and has very accurate forhand drive . He plays very clse to table like a wall and never move , he only uses his long arms .
Also , i need to know what type of serve shall i use ?
Mohsen
Hi Mohsen,
YOu should use backspin serves to his backhand. This will give you a topspin return that will be easier to attack.