One pointers are also like -1, -3

[Lou Poppler]

Interest in one point matches has increased recently, as the highest
rated two players on FIBS, one human and one computer, play only one
point matches. The rest of us trail behind. Player 'one-pointer' has
been kind enough to share with us some of the stragegic differences
applicable to one point matches, and many of us have tried to learn
by watching 'loner' and discussing its plays.

Some players eschew one point matches because (they claim) they don't want
to pervert their instincts for regular match play. Various others have
pointed out that double-match-point is exactly like a one-point match,
and that match score -2, -2 can quickly turn into the same situation.

Although I'm sure it's been said before, let me point out that in the
Crawford game at match score -1, -3, both players should also play as
though in a one point match. (The trailer *does* have to play very
slightly more conservatively than in an actual one-pointer, to avoid
backgammon, but only very slightly -- backgammons are pretty rare even
in actual one-pointers; I submit that the equity gain from switching
yourself to the one-pointer mindset is far greater than the equity risk
of the backgammon, especially if you keep the BG in mind and watch out
for it.) (Also, the equity difference of the possible "free drop" in
the following game is so negligible as to be disregarded, when compared
to the equity gain of the one-pointer mindset).

My point is that there is a big difference in how you should play in a
one-pointer situation vs. a regular old match game. You need to realize
from the first move that you are in this kind of game, and adjust your
mindset and your play accordingly. Both the leader and the trailer in
a Crawford -1, -3 game better know how to play a one point match correctly.

-- Spider

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:: Lou Poppler <l...@mail.msen.com> | "Sacred cows make the tastiest ::
:: http://www.msen.com/~lwp/ | hamburger." -- Abbie Hoffman ::
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