Coping with Being Chip Leader

Author: Simon Dexter

Hi guys.

I’ve thought about how to phrase this question for some time, but after analysing my game, I’ve realised that whenever I become the chip leader (especially in tournament play), I can just as rapidly turn into a fish.

Time and again, I’m coasting towards the final table when bang! I’m out on the bubble. If I accumulate plenty of chips, I’m just as likely to start calling raises with trash hands, or bet the river when I’m obviously behind. Is this just me being crazy?

LY

Poker Guru:

Hey LY,

No, it’s not just you; plenty of people take their foot off the gas when they’re in front thinking they’ve done the hard work. However, it’s when you get ahead that the hard work starts. You have to constantly remind yourself that while you’ve played well so far, you must remain focused. Not calling for a while might help, but if a move looks stupid, then guess what? It probably is. What’s frustrating is that you probably know this already!

This entry was posted on Tuesday, January 15th, 2008 at 3:09 pm and is filed under Have Your Say!, Poker Strategy, Poker Tips.