Playing Against "Modern" Penholders
Match Strategy
Romeo Chua Asked 9 years ago
Can you give me some advice on how to play against ppenholders who have an excellent backhand?
Alois Rosario Answered 9 years ago
Hi Romeo,
Usually the forehand block is difficult for a penholder. If you can get them to make a block off a topspin ball you may have some success there.
In general though you also need to think about the general tactics like you would against any player. What types of serves don’t they like and to which places, as well as where they like to attack from and where they like to block from. Follow the Vault for some more help on this.
Thoughts on this question
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Romeo Chua Posted 9 years ago
is it a good idea to still hit it wide to their forehand?
Jeff Plumb from PingSkills Posted 9 years ago
This certainly can be a good tactic. Again it really depends on the opponent. Try this out next time you play them and let me know how it goes.
Johan B Posted 9 years ago
http://www.pingskills.com/table-tennis-blog/ask-the-coach-show-40-shut-down-a-killer-forehand/
This Ask the Coach Show might be interesting for you, including the linked video of Xu Xin vs. Samsonov (one could argue that Xu Xin has a "killer backhand", even if it doesn't compare to his insane forehand).