Overview
If you don't know what match play is, here is a quick idea. It is one player or one team golfing against another player or team. The lower score on each hole by team or person wins the hole. If they both shoot the same score for the hole, it is halved. The team or player who wins the most holes wins the game. If they tie then the game is halved.
Tips On Match Play
When playing golf against another playing one-on-one you need to change your game a little. Some holes you will have to be more aggressive if you are behind or don't hit the ball as far. Depending on how you are playing on each hole and how that adds up in the total score will affect how you play. You might have to step it up if you find yourself falling behind.
The pressure of the game really affects match play. It is not something you can be taught. You have to learn to adapt to pressure situations. The better golfer will not always win a match play. Each hole matters. Every shot you take is important; it could be the difference between a match win and a match loss. You push each other every hole.
The first person hitting will set the tone for the hole. If your drive is right down the fairway then the next person must match it or do better. If you hit a lousy tee shot then the next person can relax a bit. You must be constantly focusing on your game; you can't take any hole or any shot off.
You can't wait until the end of the game either to check scores. You have to keep track of your score and how you are shooting but you also have to monitor who you are playing against so you know where you stand each shot and each hole. When playing match play you have to remember every shot is important. You just have to shoot better on the hole; it doesn't matter if it's one shot or 3. Don't get flustered if your opponent is shooting really well, just keep shooting well yourself.
You need to be aware of what your opponent's score is at each shot they take. It doesn't matter where on the hole you are. You need to keep track so you can adjust your game as needed. It helps to know your opponents golf game strengths and weaknesses. So when they are in a certain position you have an idea of how they will shoot. If you know they can putt then you need to focus on your putting.
Don't worry; your opponent will be playing the same as you. They will feel the pressure too. They will be analyzing and changing their strategy throughout the game to match you. Just remember to react when it is time to go for it. If you see yourself down a bit, you will have to take a chance and get aggressive. It could pay off. When you are in match play golf, always be aware of the person you are playing against so you know when you need to turn it up or take it easy.
Closing
Match play does require players to keep themselves under pressure. Winning and losing could be just across one single line if you miss you focus. Hope the above tips help you prepare better when you`re up for a match play on the course!