Strategy for playing against fisher/lobber
Match Strategy
Peter C Asked 7 years ago
Hi
I was wondering if you have any suggested strategies against a defensive player who likes to get back and fish in contrast to a defensive player who likes to get back and chop. They try and return with a lot of topspin and sidespin in their returns and their returns often come back long to the end of the table so they are difficult to put away. They seem to rely a lot on their opponent's mistakes in trying to end the rally too early (rushing) or mistakes caused by their opponents fatigue as the match goes on.
Alois Rosario Answered 7 years ago
Hi Peter,
You are right, they do rely on your mistakes.
Think about trying to keep them closer to the table to start with. Usually they don't like playing stronger so this is not something you need to be worried about. While they are loser to the table see if you can pick the right ball to make a strong shot.
When they do go back make sure you are trying to hit the ball too hard. Just place the ball to their weaker fishing side. They have no power from there.
The other important thing is to make sure that you are moving into position to make your shots when they are away from the table. A trap that a lot of players fall into is that their feet stop because the ball is moving slower.
It can be a frustrating game to play against, but also when you can master it you can really dominate the fishing player.
Thoughts on this question
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Jean Balthazar Posted 7 years ago
Also try to vary the amount of spin you put in your shots. The fisher usually loves it when there is a lot of topspin, as the ball naturally kicks out high of his bat without doing much. If you can hit flat from time to time, these shots will require him to be much more active and to really lift them. If you can mix those two types of shots (spinny / flat) without making it too obvious, that would be even better and will provoke mistakes from your opponent.
Johan B Posted 7 years ago
I like varying the depth against this kind of player. Make a strong topspin or flat hit, then make a soft block on the next shot. As this kind of player usually plays hooking forehands, I find it the easiest to step around and block with the backhand even on the forehand side. When you have some control, try to brush on top of the ball so the topspin makes it dip awkwardly towards the floor after the bounce on the opponent's side.