Many players are simply unable to execute on any of the three balls at the foot of the table while bringing the cue ball back to a shot for the eight and the win.
The difference lies in understanding whether you can make the run and whether your opponent can--and then sending the 3-ball to your opponent's least favorite spot with a gentle stroke grandma can make. Know yourself and your opponent and you'll win constantly at pool.
Learn better defense as you go for eight!
Gopher Eight Ball rules and variations are (c) Matt Sherman 2008 licensed to About.com, Inc.