Fake the Lob, Then Drive Low at Their Feet
The Situation
Opponents at the net have started backing up early every time you shape to lob.
What To Do
Show the lob, same backswing and body shape, then drive the ball low and firm at the retreating player's feet instead. Use it once they have shown they bail backwards on your lob motion.
Why It Works
Once opponents respect your lob they start cheating backwards on its preparation, which leaves them flat-footed and deep, the worst position to defend a low drive at the feet. The fake weaponises their own anticipation: a convincing lob shape buys you the half-second their backward weight-shift opens up. It is the natural counter to a pair that has learned to read your lob, and it keeps your real lob effective by reintroducing doubt.
Court Positioning
Hitter shows full lob preparation; net players shift weight backwards early. The ball is then driven low at the retreating player's feet, who is caught moving the wrong way.
Court View
Bird's-eye view: attacking net position
Skill Level
Chiquita: The Primary Weapon Against Net Dominance
Opponents control the net and you need to neutralize their advantage without lobbing.
Deep Lob Then Advance: Steal the Net
You have just played a deep lob that sends opponents retreating.
Target the Weaker Net Player Systematically
You are at the back trying to break net dominance and choosing a target.