Sustaining a rally

Paul Foo Asked 11 years ago

After my opponent makes the opening loop, I am facing difficulties keeping up with his pace. When I manage to block his loop, he loop drives it to the other corner. He contacts the ball right after the bounce. How do I sustain the rally and gain control?

Alois Rosario Answered 11 years ago

Hi Paul,

I think it is better to think about ways to stop him from gaining that first attack.

Focus some training on keeping the ball short and low.  This can be with your serve as well as with your return of serve and general rally play.

Then focus on placing the ball well to stop them getting into a good position to make an attack.

Finally if he does make the attack, focus on your placement of the block.  Try to find his weaker side and hit it to a position that will make it as awkward as possible for him.