Match Play format is a unique one on one or team on team competition that has far more strategy than amateur players can imagine. It is not focused on playing our own game like stroke play, match play offers the opportunity to apply greater pressure to your opponent using the ‘concession’ rule. Basically, a player can concede the hole at any time during that hole and move on to the next. There are many reasons for conceding a hole and strategy is definitely one of them.

An opponent can concede a hole or a stroke to finish the hole at any time. If, for example, I am hitting my 6th shot and my playing partner is on the green putting for birdie, I may decide to concede the hole (and one point on the score card). If I do, we both pick up our golf balls and proceed to the next tee box.

I have talked about conceding holes in the past. Since I am heading into the finals of the Club Championship, I felt I should recap my previous thoughts. I follow when in a match play tournament. These are solely for my use and are not codified anywhere. If you want to use them, then of course feel free. My guidelines are pretty simple:

1. Never concede a hole that loses me the match. Make your opponent earn it regardless of the situation.
2. Never concede a hole if I am within 2 strokes of my opponent. Make your opponent putt for the win; one never knows if the pressure will cause them to miss.
3. Concede a hole if we are on the green and I am 3 strokes down before our putts.
4. Rarely concede a hole in the last six holes of the match. Generally, the pressure builds for most opponents and that is when mistakes happen.
5. Never take an opponent for granted especially when playing in a net match play tournament. Match play format is considered the great equalizer and in many cases this is true. It allows all levels of players to compete equally in a competition.
6. Close out your opponent as soon as possible. What this means that if I can win the first 9 holes and tie the 10th, then I do. Never open the door for your opponent see a glimmer of hope.
7. Lastly, play my game. Regardless of what my opponent is doing, I play my game and let the chips fall where they may. There is a tremendous opportunity to interact with your opponent in a match play format, but do not let this lull you into a sense of security. Play golf to the best of your ability…..always!

There is often an overlooked aspect of conceding a putt that Golf Digest recently mentioned: “A concession is final and cannot be declined or withdrawn. Thus, any stroke he or she makes after the concession would be considered practice, which is permitted in match play (Rule 5.5). The rules allow you to practice putting or chipping on the green of the hole just completed (or any practice green).

It is possible for a player to not putt anything within 4 feet until the pressure is on it becomes a must make putt. Conceding 4 foot putts early in the match (for ties only) can slowly apply mental pressure to your opponent. It is a strategy I have used in the past, especially with novice match play competitors. It is a simple strategy that can pay off dividends down the stretch of a match. Most amateurs will not take a practice putt after a concession and this error in judgement can cause the minor case of the yips.

I have conceded putts and holes that are usually to my advantage. It is a great strategy which I will apply in my upcoming matches. It is a skill I have honed over the years through trial and error. Regardless, there is more to match play events than just whacking a ball from tee to green. Next time you are in a match, consider considering a 4 foot putt early, it might just help later in the round.

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!