Poker Warfare – Don’t Be Deceived
When playing poker online, deception works both ways. You can pretend to be weak when you are strong, and bluff strength with a weak hand. But just as we try to fool our opponents at the casino, they are using similar tactics to create a deceptive appearance too.
The Art of War says, “He who neglects forethought, and instead makes light of the opponent, will be captured.” This is sage advice for players playing poker online. Savvy poker players sometimes project an image of weakness to lure suckers into a pot. Loose aggressive players who continually bully the pot become targets for weak pretenders.
Never take a player’s weakness for granted. Expect to be deceived and be on guard, always on alert for ambush. Remain vigilant in the presence of weak play. Observe these players to catch any signs that they are changing gears in an attempt to strike. Watch their betting patterns. When a player who continually folds after betting, finally calls a raise or re-raises, recognize they may have gotten a monster hand. Even weak players get lucky some of the time.
Just because you have stolen a few pots from weaker players at the table, never stop observing their actions. Do not let arrogance blind you to telltale signs that your weaker opponent has you beaten.
