1. Home
  2. Sports
  3. Pool / Billiards

Cheat The Pocket

By Matthew Sherman, About.com

Definition: A position play that takes full advantage of the width of a table’s pocket opening. In other words, to aim a ball to either side of a pocket’s geographic center, yet still sinking it successfully. Pockets are wider than one ball’s width so the cue may be aimed slightly to one side of the geographic aim point, manipulating it while still downing the object ball.

Warning: Do not attempt to cheat the pocket over a great distance unless you are highly skilled!Beginners find it difficult to hit one side of the pocket over a distance greater than one foot.

Examples: “To gain an angle for the game-winning nine ball, I cheated the pocket on the 7-ball just before,” said Pistol Parker.

Explore Pool / Billiards

More from About.com

  1. Home
  2. Sports
  3. Pool / Billiards
  4. Pool Glossary
  5. "C"
  6. Pool Definition -- Cheat The Pocket

©2008 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.