Here’s a clever drill that will test your skills and your nerve.

I’ve previously discussed end game strategies (“Stop Missing Key Shots”) and drills, but here’s one that’s different and a little more difficult. In a past column, the 8 ball was on the head spot. This time the 8 is in the center of the table, which makes this drill a little trickier. While there is less room for error in this drill, the balls are easier to pocket if your cue ball is on point.

For this drill, I came up with some interesting rules to make the drill more challenging for players of all levels, pros included. The added pressure of the end game makes all players a little more vulnerable. Can you perform when the heat is on? This drill takes concentration because cue ball speed and staying on the right side of the ball are much more critical in this drill. And even though there are only two balls on the table, this drill still makes you think three balls ahead.

Here are the rules: For amateur league players (FargoRate under 500), you can play the 8 in either side pocket (A or D) and the 9 in either corner pocket (B or C) at the bottom of the table. Obviously, you must make the 8 and play position for the 9. Before you shoot the 9, respot the 8 and play position from the 9 to the 8. Then respot the 9 and continue. (You cannot bump an object ball.) Keep repeating as many rounds as you can. You earn two points for making the 8 and 9. Complete 10 consecutive rounds (20 points) and it’s time to make the drill more difficult.



For players whose FargoRate is over 500, the 8 ball must be made in pocket A and the 9 in pocket C. This version of the drill is very tricky and requires good thinking, good touch, and good cue ball speed. And now, thinking three shots ahead is critical if you want to pile up successful rounds.

In this scenario, a score of 10 points (five successful rounds) is pretty good. Like all drills, push yourself to better your score every time. A score of 20 is very good, and a score of 30 or higher is pro level. (This drill is pretty new, and my record so far is 44. Beating that score is my target.)

As for advice, when playing from the 9 back to the 8, it’s best to land short or straight on the 8. Over-running the 8 will make life a lot more difficult and will put you at risk of bumping the 9. Use the space and take what the table gives you.

Once you get into a good rhythm you will see the secret to the drill and the benefits of cue ball speed and staying on the right side of the object ball.

And as I always tell my students, be the cue ball. Study it and understand it and make it do what it’s supposed to do, and the cue ball will take care of you.