A drill that will test your control under pressure.

Here’s a great end game drill that will improve your game.

As we all know, most players struggle on the last 2-3 balls, when the heat ramps up. This is a slightly different version from the End Game 7-8-9 drill but, like that drill, this is great for understanding patterns, table speed and controlling your nerves when you get to the finish line.

Look at Diagram One. It looks like the 8, 9 and 10 balls are easy, right? They are, if you can control the cue ball. And that’s a big if. This drill will annoy you and frustrate you, but the long-term benefits are huge and will help you through pressure-cooker situations.

Start with cue ball in hand. No bumping balls. Re-spot each object ball after you’ve made the shot.



Starting with the 8 ball (Diagram Two), use a high cue ball (around 11 o’clock) and three rails for position on the 9. This is key to getting on the top side for the 10 ball. You don’t want to chase the cue ball around the table. Again, 11 o’clock. And long is better than short here. For the 10 ball, using 11 o’clock again.If you’re successful, that’s a run of three.

Here’s the twist. Turn the tables when re-spotting. The 8 ball and 9 ball swap places (Diagram Three).

Now, for the 8 ball use a half tip of high right english and try to use three rails for better cue ball speed. For the 9 ball, a tip of high right, leaving the right angle for the 10. The sixth shot will depend on the angle. If you have enough angle, punch draw the ball with left spin and use four rails to remove any chance of a scratch. Remember, when you make the 10, re-spot the balls as they were at the start.

This is a great drill and easy to set up. Most importantly, it will help your game. You will learn to stay on the right side and come into the lines for your next shot. And, being an endgame drill, it will definitely help you get more comfortable handling pressure shots.