Pots Using The Cushion
General Points
You can never be sure of position after coming off the cushion, so give yourself large margins of error. In particular, playing with check side can be risky.
Pot to leave another pot
Play this pot to leave a nice angle for another pot. Do not try to be too clever and get too close to the red as it is better to be further away and sure of the position.
Pot to come across the table
Make sure that you hit this shot with enough pace to make it across the table, then you have a simple shot on.
Stun pot
This shot is often badly played. Make sure that you hit the shot hard enough, because if you leave the balls in a line then it will more than likely be the end of the break. The shot often needs a lot more pace than you think. Here there is the option of playing the shot as a run through with running side, off two cushions, and if you are more comfortable with this shot, then play it instead.
Practice Targets
| Beginner | 4/10 | These pots are more difficult that they first appear and require concentration to make sure that you achieve good position. |
| Club Player | 7/10 | An average player will be successful with most of these shots. |
| Professional | 9/10 | These are basic shots for top players, but nevertheless, playing off cushions on unfamiliar tables catches even the best players out. |
Remember
- Know the positions that will cause problems and avoid them
Common Mistakes
- Playing for too narrow margins of error
