Getting walked off a table with sidespin (and other shots!)

Ryan Sexton Asked 10 years ago

Dear Alois, 

I've been recently been playing at a local community centre, and I can handle most players pretty effectively. I took a few lessons months ago, and feel confident in my forehand and backhand, however, I continually get walked off the table, forcing me to resort to lobs and low-percentage shots. 

One stroke that a player I often hit with makes that walks me off the table is a forehand side spin. I can come back and attack this ball will side spin, but I end up being far to the right. When my opponent receives this shot, it's easy pickings for him - he usually back hands to my backhand, which is out of reach for me after just returning the initial side spin shot. 

I work on my footwork, and am known at this club for being able to retrieve some wild balls. But the problem is, I don't want to retrieve the balls, I want to set up my own attacks. Should I be standing my ground? Am I overstepping to the right for the sidespin shot? Am I backing up too easily? Should I increase my footspeed, reaction time, and ability to set my feet and turn my hips? 

I'm sorry for the questions, just having a lot of difficulty improving at the moment. 

Alois Rosario Answered 10 years ago

Hi Ryan,

I think one basic strategy that you can use is to play the ball wider to their forehand side.  If you do it will cut down their ability to play wide to your backhand side.

Also if you are the first to change the direction then you can dictate the rally more.  So try going down the line first and then expect a cross court return to your backhand.

Try to stand your ground.  The further away you go, the more area you will have to cover.  Take the forehand as early as you can, even if it is more of a block shot, it will mean you will have a good position at the table rather than being forced back and wide.