Some heads up thoughts

Author: Simon Dexter

Don’t be fooled into thinking that heads-up poker is a luck thing -you couldn’t be further from the truth.

Whether playing an actual heads-up game (one player versus one player) or in the final stages of a tournament, it is vital to have the upper edge and hopefully here are a few pointers that will improve anybody’s heads-up play.

You don’t need the best hand to win

When it comes down to a two player confrontation it is folly to believe that the player with the best hand wins. This is simply not true. Forcing your opponent to fold is an important part of heads up. Aggression is rewarded and it is vital that you prey on your opponents signs of weakness.

Bluffing?

You must remember that making your opponent fold is the same as winning. If you can win the pot three times out of five then you have the upper hand. You have to out-think your opponent and bluff him or her into believing you are strong. Always play from position. If he checks the flop then you should raise. Don’t give away a free card (you know that is criminal anyway!)

It’s all in the flop

Well, it is and it isn’t. A pair of jacks on a full table is a useful hand. In heads-up, it is very strong. You must remember that most hands in one-on-one action will be poor, so seize on any strong hand and play it effectively. Always raise from the button and never flat call. Show strength and people will bow to your supposed superiority.

Get inside their head

This special type of poker means you must really out-think your opponent. More than any other situation it is time to focus on who you are playing and try to get inside their head. Think about the best way to play them.

Conclusions

Some people like playing head to head full time, while others may have dabbled in it. If you want to be a successful tournament player (or indeed sit and go player) then you need to take these things on board. The more you play, the better you should get.