Víbora on Short Lobs: Wrist Snap and Side-Wall Angle
The Situation
A lob falls short, around the service line, and you want to attack it without overhitting into the back glass.
What To Do
On a short lob only, play the víbora: a sliced, side-spun overhead struck with a wrist snap, aimed to bounce and then kick into the side glass. Never attempt it on a deep lob, step back and play the bandeja instead.
Why It Works
The víbora is more aggressive than the bandeja, the sidespin makes the ball jump and curve off the side wall at an awkward angle that is very hard to control. But it demands a comfortable, short lob; reaching back for it on a deep ball wrecks your balance and your net position. The wrist snap generates the spin without a full power swing, keeping the ball in court. Decision first (short versus deep), shot second.
Court Positioning
Short lob near the service line. Víbora struck with wrist snap and slice; the ball bounces then kicks sharply into the side glass. A contrast arrow shows a deep lob marked 'bandeja instead'.
Court View
Bird's-eye view: attacking net position
Skill Level
Bandeja: Shuffle Back, Slice, Return Forward
You are lobbed while at the net. The lob is medium depth, not short enough to attack, not deep enough to let bounce.
Víbora Only on Short Lobs: Never Deep
The opponent lobs short, the ball is above shoulder height and well inside the service line.
Always Lob to the Backhand Overhead Side
You are choosing where to direct your lobs from the back of the court.