The opening moves already described
generally apply to the second player as
well. As second player you will have the
added advantage of throwing double, which
(with the exception of a double 5) is a good
opener.
You do, however, have a number of
additional options. The first concerns
whether or not you should automatically hit
the blot left by your opponent. As a rule of
thumb, do not pass up the opportunity of
making a good point for the sake of hitting
a blot.
For example, your opponent has played a 6
onto his bar point; you throw 6-1. Should
you hit his blot with your 6, or take your
bar point? Always take your bar point.
Similarly your opponent has dropped a man on
to his five point. If you throw 1-1, 3-1 or
4-2, take a point. If you throw 2-2 or 4-4,
make a point but hit the bar as well.
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